From the Minister

Dear Ones,

Welcome to December! People around the world celebrate so many holidays this month: Advent and Christmas, Hanukkah, Solstice, Kwanzaa, and, in some Buddhist traditions, Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment). Many of these holidays have themes in common: light/candles, enlightenment, waiting, compassion, justice, unity. As UUs, we are free to explore and find meaning in all of these traditions. I hope you find something meaningful for you.

At this time of year, when days are short, I try to take advantage of every opportunity to be out in the sunshine and to soak up the gifts of this season. Yesterday, while on a mid-day walk, I noticed some cedar waxwings flitting between some berry-laden trees. I find cedar waxwings to be among the most beautiful of birds, with their black masks and crests, the red droplet markings on their wings, and their tails that look as though they had been dipped in bright yellow paint. I love the way they flock together, trilling constantly to stay connected with each other as they go about their business (mostly chowing down on fruit). They also do important work, as they spread fruit seeds far and wide – yes, through digestive processes (sorry), but also through a natural strategy that enriches the environment wherever they go.

Like me, you may see lessons in waxwing behavior for religious community: Stick together, with a focus on your mission. Stay in touch with one another, even as you go about your own tasks. Harvest the fruits of justice, compassion, and unity together, and spread them with love wherever you go, to enrich the interdependent web of all life. May these be the gifts we share in this season. May they bring light to a waiting world.

Yours in faith,

Rev. Susan