“Each time you stay present with fear and uncertainty, you’re letting go of a habitual way of finding security and comfort.”
-Pema Chodron
Many times, I have been told how, as a child, I strongly preferred knowing what to expect. I thrived on routine and familiarity. I … read more.
“May we find our foundation in the work of Love; demanding, tiring, true and human and holy.”
― Pádraig Ó Tuama
Expect the unexpected… To some, this may be an anxiety-inducing command. To others, this could be a hopeful reminder of the magic and … read more.
“All have their worth and each contributes to the worth of the others.”― J.R.R. Tolkien
This past week, I received criticism of a particular tendency that someone else, a couple of days later, pointed out as a healthy quality. It reminded me of … read more.
“To play is to listen to the imperative inner force that wants to take form and be acted out without reason. It is the joyful, spontaneous expression of oneself.” – Michelle Cassou and Stewart Cubley
This week, I saw a friend share … read more.
Dear Friends,
I am getting set for a vacation, and I really need it. This has been a tough year—more uncertain, more tumultuous, more painful than the average one. I feel the losses of our congregation—Hal Walberg and Jan Klages. I feel the losses of our … read more.
“In rare moments of deep play, we can lay aside our sense of self, shed time’s continuum, ignore pain, and sit quietly in the absolute present, watching the world’s ordinary miracles. No mind or heart hobbles. No analyzing or explaining. No questing for … read more.
Dear Friends,
Can I see another’s woe,
And not be in sorrow too?
[. . .]
O no! never can it be!
Never, never can it be!
William Blake wrote these words in 1789. They are as true now as they were then. In one way, it … read more.
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old, but rather we grow old because we stop playing.” – Karl Groos
As I was picking a few strawberries today, I imagined the ways that garden work can be done with a playful spirit. I pictured harvesting these … read more.
Dear Friends,
It’s that time in our program year where things really begin to slow down, mostly because you are occupied with gardens, picnics, and, finally once again, summer adventures with family and friends. Please remember to practice precautions so that plans for gathering at the … read more.
