Accountability: the quality or state of being accountable, especially an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions. (Merriam-Webster)
As Unitarian Universalists, we endeavor to live in accordance with our Principles ... such as affirming and promoting the inherent worth and dignity of all people, the right of conscience and the democratic process, and our interdependence.
These are the questions that have been weighing on my mind: How do we effectively hold ourselves, each other and our leaders accountable for actions and behaviors? At times when the mark has been been missed, whether deliberately and egregiously or through neglect or ignorance, how do we best respond collectively and better govern ourselves and our institutions?
The national political climate provides much to reflect upon as we emerge from yet another week of uncivil, if not hateful, discourse and fears about what many see as the continued erosion of our foundational democratic institutions and processes. And, within our own denomination, we continue to struggle to honor our foundational Principles and processes and realize, at long last!, our vision of being an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and multi-cultural faith movement. Why is it that holding our political leaders accountable for their failings seems to come a bit more easily than doing the same for ourselves and others in our faith community?
Despite the failings, challenges or even abuses of power we encounter, we would do well to not allow cynicism, despair or hopelessness to overcome us or deter us from our concerted efforts. We can't get to that Beloved Community without working, together, to advance justice and equity in all our communities. And... taking time for rest, play and joy along the way.
In the midst of whatever failings, sorrows and challenges may be weighing heavily on your heart, may your day bring you moments of kindness, honesty, and fairness, and glimmers of hope for a better tomorrow.
With blessings for the journey,
Rev. Cindy
As Unitarian Universalists, we endeavor to live in accordance with our Principles ... such as affirming and promoting the inherent worth and dignity of all people, the right of conscience and the democratic process, and our interdependence.
These are the questions that have been weighing on my mind: How do we effectively hold ourselves, each other and our leaders accountable for actions and behaviors? At times when the mark has been been missed, whether deliberately and egregiously or through neglect or ignorance, how do we best respond collectively and better govern ourselves and our institutions?
The national political climate provides much to reflect upon as we emerge from yet another week of uncivil, if not hateful, discourse and fears about what many see as the continued erosion of our foundational democratic institutions and processes. And, within our own denomination, we continue to struggle to honor our foundational Principles and processes and realize, at long last!, our vision of being an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and multi-cultural faith movement. Why is it that holding our political leaders accountable for their failings seems to come a bit more easily than doing the same for ourselves and others in our faith community?
Despite the failings, challenges or even abuses of power we encounter, we would do well to not allow cynicism, despair or hopelessness to overcome us or deter us from our concerted efforts. We can't get to that Beloved Community without working, together, to advance justice and equity in all our communities. And... taking time for rest, play and joy along the way.
In the midst of whatever failings, sorrows and challenges may be weighing heavily on your heart, may your day bring you moments of kindness, honesty, and fairness, and glimmers of hope for a better tomorrow.
With blessings for the journey,
Rev. Cindy
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