“History is birthed out of the imagination. It literally was conjured up. Imagination is so powerful that it could set forth 400, 500 years of something wrong, which means that it very well could set forth 400, 500 years of something right. That’s sort of the beauty of humanity.” -Jason Reynolds
While some may associate imagination with childhood play, imaginary friends, improv games, and daydreaming, imagination is far more expansive. When asked about the importance of imagination, a few of the kids who spent some time in Children’s Chapel this past month pointed out that, realistically, imagination is the seed that envisions, grows, and builds pretty much everything!
One of my favorite tales of radical imagination and persistence is the story of the hummingbird (as told by Wangari Maathai here in this video: https://youtu.be/IGMW6YWjMxw?si=QuoCLtYXi7YA_-gc). No matter how small our efforts may feel and how overwhelming the challenges we are collectively facing may appear, to show up and continue trying to act in ways that align with our core values and the highest ideals of our imaginations still matter – perhaps as much as they ever did.
As we transition from our Soul Matters monthly theme of imagination to freedom, may we wonder what the most free, liberated, just, beautiful version of our future could look like. Let us dare to dream a radical, wonderful vision, trusting that we don’t need to implement or even know of all the steps to accomplish it for it to be worthy of imagining. Help us to see and honor the wisdom, energy, and awe in the divergent, hopeful thought patterns of the youngest ones around us. Inspire us to keep walking that path, knowing that all we are called to keep showing up in integrity and trying to live with love at the center of our work.
(Photo is from a new exhibit by local artist ARK at the Arts Center of St. Peter – I recommend visiting while it is still up!)
Upcoming Activities:
There will be no intergenerational art-making night tonight, due to a lack of RSVPs.
However, I look forward to offering a light lunch (charcuterie style this time!) and casual connection, intended for folks ages 18-35 this Sunday after coffee hour. Please consider registering below:
UUFM Young Adult Lunch, Sunday, June 1st, 11:30am-1:30pm
https://uufm.breezechms.com/form/5782b393