Like so many of you, this week’s peaceful transfer of power was a moment of both relief and joy. Just the sight of President Biden and his wife Dr. Biden walking through the hallway on their way to the inauguration stage, brought tears to my eyes. I realized just how much I have been holding on lately- hedging against a persistent sense of dread that there would be some unpleasant and unwelcome disruption, yet again to the peaceful transfer of power. Which is of course, not to argue that we are out of the woods yet- the rise of white nationalism and the violence it celebrates against the marginalized and democracy is a threat that will take deep courage as a nation to face and overcome. As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to be people faithful to principles of democracy and the right of all peoples to live lives free of violence- which is a prerequisite to a life of dignity and worth. May our newly sworn in leaders live up to the hope we place in them this week and may we remain vigilant that democracy is a living document that must be tended and cared for perpetually. We can do better and I am hopeful that we will do so, in real terms.
This week also brought the difficult arrival to over 400,000 deaths by COVID- an arrival that coincides with the first rounds of vaccines being successfully delivered to our educators. Let us all stay focused as we await our turn for the vaccine and hold in our hearts those whose loved ones have been lost in the midst of this unrelenting virus and the often chaotic, misguided and “too little too late” management that has increased the rate of unnecessary deaths. South Valley has made many sacrifices in hopes of flattening the curve and we will continue to do so in hopes that as the vaccine rolls out, we will be able to re-open for in-person worship.
Friends, what a time this is to be living! I am so glad to be walking this season with you all. Take care and be well this week.
