Topic: Current or Recent Events

“Inauguration of a New Day,” by Rev. Dr. Brent Smith

Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15, 1929. He was an American Baptist minister, activist, and political philosopher who was one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968.As we remember Dr. King today, let’s ask ourselves what we want to be remembered for, … Continue reading “Inauguration of a New Day,” by Rev. Dr. Brent Smith

“Three Vinegar Drinkers Parable,” by Bill Casey

In these times of polarization and unrest, we may find new perspectives and wisdom by examining different philosophies and belief traditions. The Vinegar Tasters is a parable highlighting three Eastern schools of thought: Confusianism, Buddhism and Taoism.

“Trials Yielding Triumphs,” by Karina Jacques

Everyone experiences failure at some point in their lives. Students encounter challenges they may not pass, athletes lose games, artists are rejected, and scientists conduct futile research. It is a crucial part of growth and learning, and analyzing our mistakes often provides critical insights that success often can’t. We’ll explore how failure impacts both individuals … Continue reading “Trials Yielding Triumphs,” by Karina Jacques

“Peace for Palestine,” by Riverside for Palestine

The destructive impact of war affects our entire human society: Loss of life, disruption of any sense of security; destruction of cities and the environment, and immeasurable human suffering.The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is an ongoing conflict over land and self-determination. About 10 months have passed since the latest “official” war between Palestine and Israel began on … Continue reading “Peace for Palestine,” by Riverside for Palestine

“The Promise of All Lives Mattering,” by Amanda Udis-Kessler

What does it mean to matter? How do you know you matter?  Today’s reading takes a hard look at systematic racism and how it affects all of us. Colorblindness is often well-intentioned, an attempt to see everyone as a human being and therefore as the same, without paying too much attention to race and other traits … Continue reading “The Promise of All Lives Mattering,” by Amanda Udis-Kessler

“Who’s Who in the Israeli–Palestinian Conflict ,” by Alec Peck

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is once again destroying and ending lives of the people who live there, and so American citizens and politicians are once again turning their focus to this conflict. Much effort has been dedicated to determining who are the “bad” guys and who are the “good” guys, and what … Continue reading “Who’s Who in the Israeli–Palestinian Conflict ,” by Alec Peck

“Music & Meditation: Resolving Conflict in a Warring World,” by Rev. Bret Lortie

Music is a universal language of humanity that crosses borders and unites us all. Rev. Lortie reflects on how music, specifically jazz music, might teach us how to approach and resolve conflict in a new and constructive way. The Rev. Bret Lortie is senior minister of the Unitarian Church of Evanston, Illinois, and a chaplain … Continue reading “Music & Meditation: Resolving Conflict in a Warring World,” by Rev. Bret Lortie