January is a threshold month. The first month of a new year invites us to consider what we have that we need, and what we might be better off without. Our Unitarian Universalist faith opens us to potential and possibility. Rather than making new rules and resolutions, what might happen if we open ourselves to possibilities unfolding before us? This month, Unitarian Universalists exploring questions within the Soul Matters theme based ministry program are asking the question, “What does it mean to be a people of possibility?”
The exploration might involve the practice of “seeking a word”. Catholics describe a time in the third and fourth centuries when monk-like hermits, living in the desert, were sought out for guidance and wisdom. These wise “desert mothers and fathers”, we are told, would offer people a word or a phrase to ponder for weeks, years, even a lifetime. A deliberate and conscious focus on the word was believed to have the power to create possibilities in us and in the world. We may not wish to wander the desert in search of the wise person to give us a word. However, we might find it enlightening to search our own minds and hearts for a word that opens us to new insights or prospects.
As my life has brought many changes in the last few years, I have decided to choose the word Embrace. Immediately I am thinking of how to look at the past, present and future through the lens of Embrace. If this practice sounds interesting to you, I invite you to join me and others in the Soul Matters Sharing Circle, in finding a word that calls to you. The word you choose is simply an invitation to open yourself to new ways. As one writer puts it, the words are about deepening and unfolding, rather than fixing and improving. If finding your word seems daunting, consider letting the word find you. If nothing jumps out at you, you could take some time to write words that do come to mind. You could also search the internet. One suggestion is to ask yourself questions like: What do I need? What do I want? What do I need to focus on? What is the way? Here are some examples of words others have chosen: listen, home, wholeheartedness, patience, presence, blossom, soar, overcome, treasure, nourish, expect, release, finish, delight, follow, lead. Imagine how holding one of these words in front of you might change or expand the way you walk in the world.
You are invited to join me for a Second Hour on Sunday, January 13, where we will consider the question, “What does it mean to be a people of possibility?” Perhaps the conversation will help you identify a word and what it might open for you. I look forward to the opportunity to hear your thoughts.
In Love and Hope,
Rev. Alice