Recommendations from GA

Thanks to all who posted and read this blog! It was a good enough experiment (and learning experience) for us, that we're planning to launch an ongoing PNWD blog. We'll put a link on the PNWD website when it's up & running.

I'm still basking in the glow of GA, and now that I'm fully rested after that admittedly exhausting experience, I'm reviewing all the good, disappointing and puzzling points that have stuck with me. For me, GA leaves a complex legacy -- the deep conversations, the unexpected insights, the surprising delights, the programs that left me feeling unfulfilled or troubled about the present and future of UU, the pieces of UUA politics that go way over my head and speak to me of "here there be dragons."

As a UUA staffer, I'm looking forward to whatever comes with the new president's vision and style. I was surprised at how many people asked me about fear and anxiety within the UUA staff, related to the presidential election -- specifically, about rumors that UUA staff were terrified of losing their jobs/ needing to get along with either of the candidates. I heard this rumor about Peter and about Laurel in pretty much equal measure! Change is hard for some people, exciting for others (I tend to be in the latter camp). What felt grounding to me is that both candidates were obviously passionate and dedicated to UU. I'm glad that the anxiety and tension around the election is passing now, and (like I said), I'm looking forward to getting on with this next chapter in our living tradition.

Though I appreciate the availability of so many programs from GA that were recorded and are now available on-line or on CD/DVD, I have to admit that I rarely watch or listen to these myself. But two experiences were so outstanding that I have to recommend going out of your way for them:

Sermon from the Service of the Living Tradition: You can read it at http://www.uua.org/documents/harringtonmary/090626_lifetime_not_enough.pdf or watch it as part of the whole service, at http://www.uua.org/videos/ga2009.php?movie=3029.flv

Sermon from the Sunday morning worship: http://www.uua.org/videos/ga2009.php?movie=5003-5004.flv. Don't hesitate to watch the whole service, but if you want to skip straight to the sermon, it begins at about 50:10.

I also LOVED the featured song at closing worship - it's destined to become a favorite in our congregations, I predict (assuming the music will be made available). I can't seem to find it on the UUA website, so maybe I'm mis-remembering when this song was presented. All I remember is the composer is a seminarian, she had a fabulous voice and her guitar was sweet, and the song was called something like "Stand With Me." If I find it, I'll post the link here somehow.

Thanks to all who came to GA. Please do your best to share your experiences with your congregation -- we are so much more powerful in our faith and presence when we live our connection with one another.