In times of pandemic when we can’t be out and about, we feel antsy, irritated, wanting to get out of ‘here’- to escape our narrow sense of self!
In a culture still reeling from four years of a self-obsessed demagogue deconstructing democracy, we may feel uneasy focusing on ourselves.
Yet all the wisdom traditions agree: We cannot be kind, compassionate, brave in
the world if we are not kind, compassionate and brave toward ourselves.
Our worship theme this month is relationship.
As UUs committed to social justice, we assume ‘relationship’ implies ‘with others’- as in, How can we be allies with the marginalized?
Or we think of each other: How can I support your spiritual journey?
These are important. Yet, until we are at home within ourselves, our energy for efforts toward others is thwarted.
Join me in a daily practice, noticing your ‘default settings’ toward yourself.
Ask yourself:
–How am I motivating myself right now (e.g., waking up in the morning, putting on my mindset for the day; or facing a task I committed to but feel unclarity)?
–How am I comforting myself when I feel sad or afraid?
–How do I treat myself when I’m angry or bored or anxious?
May we have the courage to become kinder to ourselves, so we may be kinder to each other during this pandemic-enforced mindfulness retreat – with yourself and here in UU spiritual community together.
Rev. Mary
