Intending to do something isn’t at all the same as living intentionally. How do we turn the one to the other?
Speaker: Sheldon Pratt
Service
Where Are All the Unitarian Universalists?
If every poll and survey shows that UU attitudes, positions and perspectives are shared by such a large number of Americans, why are so few willing to call themselves UU?
Service
Accepting Change? Embracing Change!
This sermon explores the multifaceted nature of personal and external transformation, distinguishing between shifts we must endure and those we actively choose. The speaker argues that while we often resist unwanted changes by retreating into a comfortable but false reality, true growth requires us to reconcile with the world as it actually exists. Central to this perspective is the idea that individual accountability is the only path to meaningful progress, as we lack the power to reform others. By participating in a supportive community, individuals can find the strength to move beyond their comfort zones and trade intellectual intentions for emotional commitments. Ultimately, the sermon suggests that wisdom lies in prioritizing internal evolution over the futile desire to control external circumstances.
Service
Be Here Now, Together
Summary:
This sermon presents a sermon exploring the concepts of mindfulness, community, and engagement with the present moment. It draws inspiration from various spiritual and philosophical works, including Ram Das’s “Be Here Now” and teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being present in daily activities and fostering meaningful relationships within families, communities, and the wider world. It encourages listeners to recognize both the beauty and the struggles around them and to actively participate in creating a better world together. The speaker uses personal anecdotes and references current events to illustrate the interconnectedness of individual journeys and collective well-being.