Reinforcing the Strands

We are living inside a non-repeatable event of infinite importance. Pay attention. Try to do what needs doing to have us all have a good ending. Dear gossamer strands that connect each of us to the web of life, we think of those whose curiosity and joy is great this day and of those whose day will contain much sorrow. Let us always be gentle with one another for we cannot tell one from the other just by looking at a person. Here, Now: Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

On this day when we think about the process of aging, we think especially of those people in our community who bear the honor and the burdens of having lived many years. When we know them as individuals, we marvel at their wisdom and good humor as they bear their years with uncommon sensibility and grace. Whenever their burdens become great, let the church be one of the places that cares for them and about them. We say to young people today that if you get to know two or three people who are over 75, your life will be richer for the experience. And we say to our elders: If you know two or three young people under 25, you may be surprised by their courage and wisdom.

On this day we think about neighbors who have beliefs or traditions different than ours. Let us reinforce the strands that connect us to each other. Let us show tolerance and understanding. Let us care for each other.

Be kind. Be well.

Cynthia Barnes Johnson is a retired Unitarian Universalist minister having served congregations in Dallas, Rockford and Oklahoma City.  She has preached often at the UU Fellowship of Door County since moving here 20 years ago.



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