Dear UUSS Community,

This past Sunday, many of us heard from Robyn Salvin and Rev. Wendy, about engaging in healthy, respectful dialogue and conflict. The story for all ages reminded us how speaking out when someone is experiencing harm is important. Rising up against bullies and reaching out to include people are part of our UU values.

We hope that if you are eligible to vote, that you participate in today’s election by casting your ballot. Big thanks to all those who have been working hard on various campaigns. Our democracy is made better by active participation! No matter what happens in this election, there will be work to do tomorrow. There will be people who need our support and our questions. There will be friends, neighbors, and family members who think differently than you do who are either celebrating or grieving.

We hope that you will find ways to remain in conversation with them, listening to their perspective, and respectfully sharing yours when they are open to hearing you. We hope that you practice these kinds of conversations at UUSS… sharing your ideas with us and others. Sometimes there will be disagreement. Conflict is simply the presence of 2 or more ideas in the same place at the same time. Our thoughtful, honest conversations can help improve the programs in our congregation, and the ways that we connect with the wider community. Whatever tomorrow brings, we are here to celebrate, to support, to comfort, to rage, to encourage.

in faith~ Rev. Lynn and Rev. Wendy