Here are the words I shared from the Unitarian Universalist Association:

Unitarian Universalism believes in the right of free speech and the democratic process. Attacks like those at Saturday’s political rally weaken democracy, and the Unitarian Universalist Association condemns this attack. At a time when democracy is already at risk, these events will only make our political environment more precarious. 

As we prepare to meet this moment, we must return to our spiritual grounding and faithful practice. Take a breath, reflect together, wait for emerging truth over quick speculation. Anchor yourself in communities and relationships that foster resilience, liberation, and strategy. Cultivate nuance and seek out deep wisdom, political analysis, and spiritual grounding, as misinformation will be rampant. 

Our Unitarian Universalist tradition is rooted in the values of human dignity, justice, compassion and democratic principles. We will remain vigilant in our commitment to protecting our democracy and the integrity of its principles and the rights of all its people. Let us keep love at the center. We are in this together.   

MAM:  And so may it be.  And so may it be.

2. As some of you know, my study leave in the latter part of June was interrupted by Covid. It has not been an easy Covid journey. In fact, it appears to mimic my only other bout of Covid two years ago, down to testing positive on the exact same date, June 27, 2022 and June 27, 2024.

While I didn’t expect my recovery to last as long, the lingering “unexpected moments of weakness and fatigue” are still with me. Yep, just like last time. My guess is that full recovery will be about 10 weeks. However please know that I am definitely getting better overall, day by day.  All positive energies are welcome!

3.  I am recommending two books for our church year ahead:

The authors queries, In a world we cannot recognize, how do we find a way forward? In this world we do not understand, how do we know what to do? When so little is comprehensible, what is meaningful work, what is genuine contribution?

4. I am on ministerial leave aka vacation July 15 through August 15. I will be away from my office and email during that time. However, I will see some of you August 4 at the 8th session of our Death and Dying Class. Also, I will be with you all for our Annual Water Communion Service on August 11.