Dear Ones,

Unitarian Universalists often talk about the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part, language that we can find in our Seventh Principle. And one of the values identified by the Article 2 Study Commission is Interdependence. But what does it really mean when we say that all things are interdependent? In the proposed revision to Article II of the UUA’s bylaws, the portion dealing with the covenant supporting the value of Interdependence states:

We covenant to protect Earth and all beings from exploitation. We will create and nurture sustainable relationships of care and respect, mutuality and justice. We will work to repair harmed and damaged relationships.

I think the key word there is “relationships.” I may know that some aspect of my existence intersects with other beings and the environment, but how can I truly honor the connection I have with them if I do not affirmatively consider myself in relationship with them? The author, orator, and teacher Charles Eisenstein has done a lot of work around the concept of “interbeing” which recognizes the relationships that exist between and the interconnectedness of all things. Eisenstein says, “Each experience of love nudges us toward the Story of Interbeing, because it only fits into that story and defies the logic of separation.” I truly believe that love has the power to do that, we only have to let love in.

This coming weekend we are supposed to have a lock-in for the OWL students. This means they will be spending the night at the church. However, we are short one adult chaperone. Please let Rev. Mark Wise know if you can help out, as soon as possible, otherwise we will have to cancel the event. A background check is required.

The Third Annual Buy Nothing Fair will be held at the church on Saturday, May 4th, just one and a half weeks away. At home, I have started a box that I am filling with gently used things for the event. I am just worried that I might end up coming home with the box still full, but with the “new” things I find!

This month, we will be giving away 50% of what we receive in our Sunday offering plate to the Judeo-Christian Outreach Center. You can find out more about them here: https://jcoc.org/.

The topic of the sermon this coming Sunday is “Hope and Interbeingness,” and so I close my message to you this week with a musical rendering of a poem by Thich Nhat Hanh called “Interbeing.”

In peace and love,

Rev. Viola

Rev. Viola Abbitt  (She/Her/Hers)
Minister
Coastal Virginia Unitarian Universalists
809 South Military Highway
Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Office: 1-757-627-5371x3Mobile: 1-757-354-4541
My Sabbath is on Fridays.
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