Pluralism is the next term expressing a Unitarian Universalist value to study this year. We’ll kick off the month’s theme with the simple but profound recognition that different people may see the same thing differently. Children in the Sunday morning program will compare what they each see in pictures that viewers tend to perceive in one of two ways. One common example of an optical illusion like this depicts two silhouetted profiles, according to some people, or a vase according to others (or a chalice in the eyes of a Unitarian Universalist!). We might see some things differently, but UUs tend to agree, as the proposed Article II says about pluralism, “that we are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology. . .. We embrace our differences and commonalities with Love, curiosity, and respect.” This month and throughout the year, recognizing and respecting different perspectives is an important lesson for children as well as adults.
How can we value pluralism if we don’t encounter people with various experiences? Fortunately, UUFS Religious Education will provide children and youth with special opportunities to meet new people in May. Sunnyvale Community Services offers monthly Family Nights, when children ages 4-12 with their parents are invited to help with food donations and other service projects while they hear from people who have experienced hunger or inadequate shelter. I want to recognize the UUFS Social Justice Team for maintaining a supportive relationship with SCS over many years and for bringing this family-friendly program to my attention. Children and their families will see their town through different eyes and begin to see themselves as allies and change makers. For UUFS youth, pluralism will be our compass as we embark on a third session of Crossing Paths this month. The middle- and high-school participants in this interfaith outreach program will study and visit another local faith group.
As our paths cross many others’ this month, let’s remember to greet our fellow travelers with love, curiosity, and respect.