Torch Column: In the Life

03 November 2016

In the Life - Rev. Matthew Cockrum


On the cusp of the national presidential election I have two quotes to offer you, Friends. The first comes from the pop 80’s band, REM:

“It’s the end of the world as we know it...and I feel fine.”

The second comes from the 14th century Christian mystic, Julian of Norwich:

“All shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of things shall be well.”

There’s an innocent, obnoxious and possibly infectious optimism in both of these sentiments. And it is that optimism I hope to impart to you. Perhaps it’s naive, but I continue to trust and believe in the evolutionary processes of which we are a part. They’ve gotten us this far, haven’t they? And though there’s plenty wanting in the way things are, there’s a lot to be grateful for - even in our awareness of injustice, inequality, oppression and privilege.

The oft-cited quote of early Unitarian Theodore Parker (later cited by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.), “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice,” is just as often followed up with the reminder that we must take an active role in doing the bending. I see that happening all around me - on-line, in person, at bus stops, signs in windows and front yards, bumper stickers. Even in the difficult, frustrating, seemingly pointless conversations between opposing parties.

There is a continued engagement.
There is an unwillingness to just let things go and continue as they are.
There is an impatience.
There is a deep desire...a hunger for justice, change, improvement.

It’s been said that our tradition is part of a version of liberal idealism that may have outlived its usefulness. I disagree. We are an embodiment of determined creativity. We cannot always know or predict how that creativity will take shape. But we can choose to collaborate with it.

Here’s to The Work, Friends...of optimism, creativity and the infinite possibilities of love.

Peace, Faith & Passion,
Matthew


More from Matthew

High School OWL - Save the Dates
Make sure your youth benefit from accurate, comprehensive and faith-inclusive sexuality education by participating in Our Whole Lives.
2 Overnight Weekends - attendance at both
Friday, February 3 5:30 p.m. to Saturday, February 4 9:00 p.m.
Friday, February 17 5:30 p.m. to Saturday, February 18 9:00 p.m.
Cost - $40
Ages - grades 10, 11 and 12
Parent Orientations - must attend one or clear with Rev. Matthew Cockrum
Sunday, January 22 - 3:00-5:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 26 - 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Additional Needs
Snacks
meal organization and delivery - breakfast, lunch, 2 dinners
Overnight chaperones - background checks required, previous experience preferred
For more questions contact Minister for Congregational Life, Rev. Matthew Cockrum at or 801.582.8687 ext. 205

Room Switches - to accommodate group sizes, the 10th-12th and 8th-9th grades will be switching rooms. Effective November 6:
High School (10th-12th grades) - will meet in room 218 - still 10:45-12:45
Jr. High (8th & 9th grades) - will meet in the Haven (room 214) - still 10:45-12:15