March 3, 2021

Week 51, Beloveds, FIFTY ONE!

This past week, I (Tuli) submitted an article to the UUA’s Braver/Wiser series. Who knows if it will ever be published - it doesn’t matter, I had fun writing it. It got me thinking about the Hindu guidance that if we do things with integrity and purpose, with passion and as our calling, the end result our outcome of our actions need not be our focus (Krishna’s counsel to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita). I have always struggled with this guiding principle for our behaviors.

Here we are, a week away from marking the one year anniversary of when we ceased gathering as one large community.  We have worn masks, distanced ourselves, and tried to be disciplined about gathering. Are the outcomes of our behaviors inconsequential? 

I would say the outcomes of our behaviors need celebrating and focus, upliftment and homage, as we will continue to behave in these ways even as more and more people are vaccinated and the air we breathe is safer. 

Perhaps we need to listen deeply to our inner selves (deep listening is our theme for the month of March) to find what, who and how we will celebrate. On March 13th, long-time Beacon member Wim Sweldens will be running a marathon to mark the one year anniversary and to raise money for Summit Warm Hearts. On the 14th, Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner heads out on a two month sabbatical - a time to listen deeply and reflect purposefully (and of course do the wonderful things she is called to do) - join me in celebrating her and wishing her well (register here). 

Listen, Beloved, to that still small voice within. Let it rise to your consciousness and be a guide for the coming weeks. 

Tuli, Robin, Emilie