Dear Ones,

What have you learned from the pandemic? 

The last in person gathering we held at UUFB was on Sunday, March 15, 2020. It was a lay led service, with insightful reflections from the group that read and studied Brené Brown’s book, Braving the Wilderness. The next Sunday Chris and I led worship online from inside the Fellowship Hall! Those were early days, before we were told to wear masks.

Since then, we’ve held nearly a full year of services online. Our Board and committees have managed to continue meeting via Zoom. Having the technology to do all this has been a blessing, enabling many to stay connected. Unfortunately, some have not had the capability, and some have not had the inclination, to attend worship or any other meetings online. 

So, I’ve been thinking about this year. While the enforced isolation is beginning to really get to me, I’ve learned to cherish those connections that continue, like the handful of UUFB folks who sign into the Connect Online zoom chat on Fridays. I’ve revived a couple of old habits, making soup from scratch and homemade hamburger buns (not on the diet, but oh well). We’ve begun to find the perfect places for various pieces of artwork that have been sitting in closets. I’m continually working on appreciating what I have – and not worrying about what I don’t have. 

Which brings me back to my question: What have you learned from the pandemic? What will you remember fondly about this time, if anything? Has the enforced isolation prompted you to learn something new, or return to an old practice? Have you been making changes in your surroundings? Stay tuned, there may be an opportunity for sharing in the near future!

I know we all look forward to when we can meet together again, safely. Until then, remember that I love you, and I’m glad you’re here and part of the Fellowship. Get vaccinated when you can, if you’re able. Be well, and stay safe!

Blessings,
Rev. Lori Hlaban