As the church year draws to a close I find myself reflecting back on it. Nothing about this ‘season’ has been normal. I believe that we, as a spiritual community, have been changed as a result. While so much of our attention has been focused on the pandemic/health issues, many other things happened simultaneously. So many people have been telling their truth, Black Lives Matter and the #MeToo movements to name just two.
I recently read some things about George Harrison, the former Beatle, who had something interesting to say about telling the truth:
“I’ll tell you one thing for sure: once you get to the point where you’re actually doing things for truth’s sake, then nobody can ever touch you again because you’re harmonizing with a greater power.”
This sounds pretty UU to me: after all, our covenant states, “To seek the truth in love.” It’s a part of our mission. But then, whose truth are we talking about? This is more than a matter of what works for you or what works for me. There are larger things at stake. Matters such as the dignity and worth of each individual are very large truths that encompass the globe and that cut to the core of spirituality.
I had only known about George Harrison the musician/songwriter and had not known about his spiritual underpinnings. He made the following statement:
“Everything else can wait, but the search for God cannot wait.”
I don’t believe he is referring to the God of Christianity or any other God. If one substitutes ‘truth’ or ‘love’ or ‘Source’ for ‘God’, then we are much closer to his intent. OK … so why can’t it wait? When we realize who we are at our core or essence, then all of the other issues get addressed. Why? At the level of essence, we are all the same. The more each one speaks their truth, the more evident it becomes.
One of the things that your staff does during the summer is to recharge batteries. I am referring to our energy levels and visions, and our search never stops. My wish for you this summer is a time for you to recharge your batteries and harmonize with a greater power. Perhaps it is a trip to the ocean, the forest, a mountain, a river or some kind of communion with Nature. Then, when we reconvene in September, we will be ready for the ‘search for truth’ to continue with renewed strength, enthusiasm and connection. We have such important work to do. In the meantime, keep singing, whistling or humming! It will help your heart, improve your mind, lighten your emotions and lift your spirit.
Have a great summer!
Rev. Ed