Dear Ones,

As we finish up our month on the theme of “belonging,” I must say that a part of me will always belong to the north. As many of you know, Tom and I spent just a few days in Vermont last week, thanks to last year’s Auction.

It was rainy, but the fall foliage was still on glorious display. Reds, oranges, yellows, and a few greens, all blending beautifully. With the light rain, a drive through the mountains felt like moving through an impressionist painter’s landscape. This change of color in the fall, from greens to vivid autumn hues, is something I really miss. I do not miss the snow, but I do miss the colorful falling leaves.

The sense of belonging is one of the first ideas addressed by author Brené Brown in her book, Braving the Wilderness. This is the book Rev. Nan White quoted in her 20th Anniversary sermon, which she also recommended we read and discuss as a congregation. I think it’s a good idea, and wonder who might be willing to facilitate discussions. (There are sample discussion questions available online, from Ms. Brown.) Depending on how many people want to read and discuss, we may need to organize more than one group. If you’re interested – especially if you’re willing to be a discussion facilitator – please let me know.

Another potential book to read and discuss is An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz. This is the UUA Common Read for 2019-2020, and a discussion guide will be published in November.

Happy fall, everyone!
Rev. Lori Hlaban