Minister's Column for November 2008
As cooler air becomes more frequent, the days become a little shorter, light becomes a little softer; fall has arrived. Fall can be invigorating, inspiring us to go outside and deeply breathe in the fresh cooler air before it becomes cold. Fall is also a sort of settling in and remembering to appreciate the comfort of what we have; the people who bless our lives.
This fall there is another component filling our spaces, the intense uncertainty that is culminating in November.
For the past several months I have listened to stories about the uncertainty. I know the effect of the financial crisis is possibly just beginning. We know many of the social services of our community, groups we care about, are losing their funding. We know people in our communities are scared or have already lost their jobs. Combined with this uncertainty are intensely emotional and mentally gripping political campaigns; we wonder about our future. We might wonder what will happen to us and our families in the near and far future. What we will we be next month, in six months, in a year? What will life be like if "my candidate" does not win? Compounding the economic and political fears we are also faced with propositions that eliminate rights for LGBT people and pregnant teens, just to name a few. We all see the large groups on the corners of Orange County with "Yes on Prop 8" signs, and many of us find ourselves taking in a deep breath, holding the steering wheel a little tighter, tensing up, and forgetting to breathe out as we pass by and feel outnumbered.
Tapestry is also trying to hold tenderly its own uncertainty as we wait to see if we will merge with Orange Coast Unitarian Universalist Church, a decision Orange Coast will vote on in November 2nd. These are intensely emotional political, civic, economic, and personal times in our families, communities, county, and congregation. We enter November with a lot of energy, nervous hope, and anxiety spread out in many different directions.
So what can we do with all this intensity? How do we keep ourselves fluid rather than frozen, sane rather than spinning? One thing we can do is to hold ourselves lightly, in kindness and love. I am reminded of these words of wisdom from The Book of the Samurai:
“Matters of great concern should be treated lightly."
A light touch, a light heart, a light mind can bring just the perspective and balance we need. When living with uncertain change we often forget to be gentle with ourselves as we tense up. While we can listen as much as we like to "expert" commentators, we do not know the future, therefore we must prepare ourselves by holding ourselves with gentle, loving care.
Holding ourselves lightly is part of building an emotional basket that will hold us in the times to come.
In addition to holding ourselves lightly, we can also respond to this uncertainty by giving thanks. Rather than waiting until "after" it is over, it is time to give thanks now. Therefore, it is convenient that Thanksgiving is also in November. When we are the most uncertain, one of the best ways to remain open is to express your gratitude for the multiple relationships in your life.
So during this time of cultural, personal, and community uncertainties culminating in November let us remember to hold ourselves lightly, in kindness and love, and always give thanks.
Additionally, please know I am also available to meet confidentially with anyone who wants to talk about what is going on in your life. If you are experiencing stress, looking to make a change, have a concern, overwhelmed with stress I am open to meet with you for pastoral care. Please feel free to email or call (949) 581-0245 to set up an appointment.
In love and care,
Rev. Mitra Rahnema
