The Stories We Receive
I just spent a little time listening to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Ted Talk, titled The Danger of a Single Story. It sparked some thoughts for me about how distorted one’s view can become both because of a single story, but also because of the confusion that results from an information overload.
Because we live in such a loud world and divisive time of misinformation, assumptions, and reactivity, it takes a great deal of mindfulness and discernment to choose what stories we are really subscribing to. Some perspectives hold a very narrow view, or only know a single story that has been told. Other times, people may experience what feels like overwhelming, conflicting information.
When considering the many stories that I hear, I feel so grateful for not only the access I have, but the ability to choose which stories align with my truth and when to dig deeper. One gift of being in Unitarian Universalist community is that we gather among people who see the world through various lenses without contradicting our core values. I deeply appreciate the growth that I experience when I hear how differently another person sees the world. This widens our circle of concern and care, and allows more people to care for, see, and hear us too. What a gift it is to be in community and to forever learn from one another.
May we stay curious, as there is always more to the story. Let us trust our inner-knowing and remain humble enough to admit that sometimes our stories might be incomplete or false. May we let go of harmful narratives and hold meaningful stories close to our heart. I pray that many good truths are amplified, that our principles are practiced, and that our collective wisdom grows.
I am here for you, just an email or a phone call away. While I am no longer holding virtual “office hours”, you can reach me on my personal phone at 507-995-7929 or by email at cfddirector@uumankato.org . If I do not answer, I encourage you to send a text or leave a voicemail. Currently, I am available for daytime meetings on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. I also do have availability most other weekday evenings. I will continue to do my best to serve as a resource to our community, through connecting you to one another and of course, directly. Being a light in the lives of others is as important as ever, and I hope you will stay connected.
Macey Forsyth
Please consider joining our private Facebook group: UUFM Children’s Faith Development (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404655806251029/). This group is intended for families and congregants who are involved in Children’s Faith Development. My approval of new members’ access to the information there is what makes the group a safe space for sharing. I will be sharing our weekly stories as Facebook videos on my personal page publicly and sharing them in the group, as well as short prayers and meditations.
Link to the stories: Our virtual Stories for All Ages are now available on the UUFM YouTube Channel. At least one new story will be available by Sunday, each week.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNwWkbABO6HpDlw5Po2TdQA?view_as=subscriber
Youth Group: Youth Group meets tonight, Wednesday, May 5th, from 6:30-8pm via Zoom with Barb and Macey. We will check-in, reflect, and play a story game. As always, more information will be posted to our private Facebook group and sent out via email.
Virtual Children’s Chapel: Our next Children’s Chapel will be held Sunday, May 9th, from 11:30am-12:30pm via Zoom with Deb and Macey. As always, more information will be posted to our private Facebook group and sent out via email.