Dear Friends, I am grateful today for these words of wonder from Thich Nhat Hanh in his The Art of Living: “Spirituality is not religion. It is a path for us to generate happiness, understanding, and love, so we can live deeply each moment of our life. Having a spiritual dimension in our lives does not … Continue reading December 7, 2022
Dear Friends, It’s our last day with the Soul Matters theme of “Change.” And the concept of change will linger on, both a description of our lives—especially after a death or a diagnosis or birth or a marriage or engagement—an inevitable condition of it. “Seasons change and so did I.” Change will come, as that … Continue reading November 30, 2022
I recently subscribed to an email list called First Light Meditations, thanks to Rev. Rita, and this message came through recently. I loved how it so perfectly aligned with our themes: “Each new day is a path of wonder, a different invitation. Days are where our lives gradually become visible. Often it seems that we … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 11.30.22
This week, I share a story called Everything Changes and That’s Okay, and it has me considering the truth of that title – so little is guaranteed. For some, recognizing that fact may produce difficult feelings or perhaps some anxious thoughts. For others, it might bring more of a sense of peace or neutrality. I believe … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 11.23.22
Dear Friends, I used to dread the snow and cold. I brought that attitude with me from Buffalo, NY. And in the words of the 1970s rock band, Guess Who, “Seasons change, and so did I.” Partly, its that Covid parked me in a spot in my house looking out a window through a screen … Continue reading November 16, 2022
“We gather together this morning, Because others came before us. Some have left examples for us to follow, Others lessons for us to learn from, and the paradox is that many have left both pain and joy. We honor our ancestors this morning, not because they are perfect, But because, without them, we would not … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 11.16.22
Once a reporter asked him, “Do you really think you are going to change the policies of this country by standing out here alone at night in front of the White House with a candle?” A.J. Muste replied softly: “Oh I don’t do this to change the country. I do this so the country won’t … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 11.9.22
Dear Friends, Several of you asked about this quotation from Hans Krebs, Nobel biochemist and father of the Krebs Cycle. I used it in the sermon on November 6: “I saw them argue without quarreling, quarrel without suspecting, suspect without abusing, criticize without vilifying or ridiculing, and praise without flattering.” He was speaking of fellow … Continue reading November 9, 2022
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin Yesterday, at our monthly CFD Committee meeting, it was discussed that moving from the theme of courage to the theme of change feels like a natural, suitable transition. It takes courage to face what we would like to change, sometimes … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 11.2.22
Another question came in after the Question Box service on October 23rd , and I thought I would answer it in my way. “I wonder what people who don’t believe in god mean when they wish someone blessings? I’ve always understood blessing to mean wishing for god to provide comfort and support.” If a blessing … Continue reading November 2, 2022
