This note was written right before Election Day, so it does not reflect the relief and delight engendered by the courage of the American electorate. Still, our courage continues to be needed!

Over the past month, I’ve been stimulated and challenged by our exploration of Courage.  We have learned that to have the capacity to manifest our values in the world, we must work on our personal fearlessness and courage. We’ve learned that if even one small segment of us took it upon themselves to live courageously in ways that help our families, our neighborhoods, our towns, and indeed the earth itself, something good can begin to happen.

I see signs that our UUFSM community is growing stronger and more vital.  Members are engaging in new ways about topics that interest them. Katy is working on bringing Our Whole Lives training to Southern Maryland. Moved by the warmth and supportive spirit of last year’s PRIDE SoMD, Debs has hand-stitched rainbow ribbons to hand out at our table in November. She also plans a reusable table display of famous UUs for connection and outreach to be used at any community event we attend. We’ve had good commitment on coffee-hour refreshments, with Hugo as a new entrant on the list of hosts.  Marianne has taken on chair leadership of the Fellowship Committee, and the Finance Committee is active and reviewing our investments to align with our values.  Elaine will be joining the Fellowship in November as a new member, and Joyce will lead her welcome.  All of this is life-affirming, strengthening our connections and the resilience of our community.

The current times in our country call for our courage. We may have to be braver than many of us feel if the election results are undermined by those in power. But remember—we’ve learned that if we don’t feel brave, we can borrow courage from each other.  Community is the antidote for fear. 

See you in church,

Gena