Sometimes it is a little challenging to write a regular monthly column. That means I am always on the lookout for inspiration. Here is what I found for this month. Back in 1738 “Poor Richard’s Almanac” contained these words from Benjamin Franklin: “If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead and rotten, either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing.” Franklin was known for his intellect and wit. He was also a Unitarian.
Then there is this gem that I found from Kahlil Gibran (1883-1931) a writer, poet, artist and philosopher who wrote: “I slept, and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke, and I saw that life is all service. I served and saw that service is joy.”
My musing will never be confused with great literature. Which leaves me with writing about the wonderful things that happen here at the UUCV. This community we share is growing. The challenge is to find ways to be in relationship with each other. That’s everyone’s responsibility, to reach out to each other, and introduce yourself to people you haven’t met before. The making of connections, having friends who accept us as we are, is a spiritual quest for belonging and community.
In my case the past month brought opportunities to begin new relationships and deepen existing ones. There was time spent participating at Building & Grounds Day (3rd Saturday of every month); went on a hike with the UU Hikers led by Mike Sixbey (1st Saturday of every month); and enjoyed the camaraderie of the UUniques 50+ Potluck organized by Pat and Merle Oberg (4th Thursday of every month). There was also church work on a couple of projects. One involved research on the RE/Multipurpose room with Will Devine. The other project is with Neal Ortenberg and concerns the possibility of partnering with another non-profit organization to offer a shower service for the Safe Sleep participants on our property.
By reading the newsletter, or checking your email for the weekly church announcements, reading the back of the Order-of-Service, perusing the bulletin boards in Berg Hall, or stopping by the Connecting Table on Sundays you can learn of the many, many activities we have at the UUCV. I strongly encourage everyone to try new things. That would encourage adventure and exploration benefitting your spiritual well-being. By actively participating in the life of the church you will find your place at the table and you will be building a legacy of giving and receiving.
Living in Paradise,
Bryan Buck, UUCV Board President
805-644-3898
administrator@uuventura.org
