Peace is joy at rest. Joy is peace on its feet.

– Anne Lamott

This season can be one of hope as well as a challenging time for children, youth, and adults struggling to live healthy, happy lives while being tuned in to the pain, fear, and violence that is everywhere. I suggest that we model and teach being accomplices for real justice and peace, while practicing self-care and everyday happiness along the way. No small feat, I know. And we realize that our children and youth are watching, learning, forming their own ideas of what is most important.

There are ways to be in community at First Unitarian that might help us to ignite our own flames to find the way. On December 2, we will dedicate children in a ceremony that affirms the connection between the child, family, and congregation. And after the service, we will sing our hearts out at a Sing-along for all ages in the Atrium. On December 23, we will mark the longest night by experiencing winter solstice in craft, story, and song. On Christmas Eve, we will celebrate the hope of Christmas in pageantry, candlelight, and breathtaking music. We will continue to provide sanctuary to people who need our care, feed some hungry folks, and collect funds to support on-the-ground justice making in the name of our faith.

So, perhaps this season, we can dually embrace the rest and action of peace, as in the quote at the top of this column.

An image that encapsulates my hopes . . .

Taking time for what we value is a spiritual practice. Whatever your brand of celebration might be, my wish is that you will feel warmth, love, wonder, renewal, and the courage and will to make peace.

Cathy Seggel, Director of Religious Education
401.421.7970
dre@firstunitarianprov.org