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
Minister’s Message Here is the final question from the Question Box Service on October 23rd: “Where is the arc of justice bending?” It references an 1853 quotation from Unitarian minister Theodore Parker: “I do not pretend to understand the moral universe. The arc is a long one. My eye reaches but little ways. I cannot … Continue reading October 26, 2022
“Courage is found in unlikely places.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien The Path of Courage, and Honoring its Complexities As we wrap up the month of courage, I find myself reflecting on the multitude of places it can be found and ways it can be practiced. Courage can be found in not having the right … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 10.26.22
I’m back in Mankato after a fruitful leave for reflection and renewed friendships in Western New York. Back at my backyard view, watching the leaves fall. Watching the Downy woodpeckers and the squirrels continue to fatten themselves for the lean times that are coming. Watching that one leaf that does not seem to want to … Continue reading October 19, 2022
This week is a relatively busy one for me, with interviewing childcare candidates, planning ahead, and providing care tonight, among other things. While I do not have an elaborate reflection to share here today, the words in the image shared here reminded me of the upcoming tale for all ages. May you know the value in … Continue reading CFD Director’s Message 10.19.22
