Our Fourth Principle: A free and responsible search for truth and meaning
Unitarian Universalists are called to examine our beliefs in community. Where has your path led you?
Our UU openness to all spiritual paths has introduced me to possibilities I would have otherwise rejected out of hand. I suspended my un-belief long enough to experience the power of (to name a few!) dance, music, meditation, writing, gratitude, and Nature. I learned that “religion” was something I could embrace–once I broadened my definition of the word.
As a curious person, I am interested in other people’s beliefs and want to know more about them. As a UU, I listen with an open heart as well as a critical mind. Whether it’s in a covenant group or a clean-up crew, a conversation between UUs is bound to be thoughtful–both considered and considerate.
For 30 years, I rejected all organized religion because I had rejected the beliefs of the church I attended as a youth. At TJMC I have revisited the religious traditions I couldn’t connect with as a young adult. The woman who has talked to rocks (and heard them answer) finally understands communion. As I open myself to possibility, I find more possibilities to explore.
–Lynn Heath
Our responsible search also looks inward. We need to listen to ourselves, to the voice inside us that guides us and provides moral direction. We have to acknowledge our belief system’s ongoing subjectivity. Because we are evolving, changing beings, we want to remain open to our own development. Just because something makes sense to us today, doesn’t mean it will always make sense. And so we must continue to remain self-aware.
–Adam Slate
Adam’s words are part of a sermon he delivered to the UU Church of Hot Springs, Arkansas, in October, 2015. Read his whole sermon here.