Aug. 26, 2026

I keep hoping I will finally get it right
and become the ideal specimen of a
spiritually awakened human, calm & kind, 
both self-actualized and selfless.

But the only flawless butterfly 
is a dead butterfly, pinned and mounted.
I choose life–an ever-unfolding adventure involving 
multiple meltdowns and glorious reshapings.

~Mirabai Starr, 
Ordinary Mysticism: Your LIfe as Sacred Ground

Beloveds,

Individually or collectively, we’re never quite done becoming human, are we? 

Some seasons in life, some periods of history, even everyday awkward transitions from here to there–all remind us that living beings and living communities are never finished and certainly never flawless. It is a choice, perhaps even a spiritual discipline, to appreciate the adventure and the hidden glory in the goo of change. 

This time of year is always interesting to me, as we transition from summer to fall, from Summer Song Sundays to the main body of our church year, from last year’s Board, committees, and working groups to the configurations of congregants who will serve the many needs of this year’s version of our vibrant faith community. These transitions are not always immediately glorious, but I am, every year, intensely curious about what new reshapings of people and visions and commitments will guide our way and serve our communities through the coming year. Every year I am reminded that our shared life, despite its decades-long history and stable traditions and practices, is still unfolding. 

As we settle into the 2026-27 church year, I wonder what adventures will unfold, and I am grateful for good company and the love that surrounds us all.

Yours in the adventures of meltdown and reshaping,
Rev. Denise
RevDenise@gnuuc.org

P.S. This is the last week to register for the Solidarity Summit being hosted by TUUCAN and UU the Vote in Memphis on Sept. 18-20. If the chance to gather with UUs from across the state and beyond for fellowship, training, witnessing, and an appearance by Justin Pearson is calling you, please go here to begin the registration process, or ask me or Caren S-S for more information.