Dear friends,
I am in awe. I am in awe of the people in our congregation who have leapt into the brand-new Climate Hope Affiliate of Metrowest Project (CHAMP) with both feet – writing Letters to the Editor, calling friends in swing states, and building connections with legislative staffers. I am in awe of people who come out every Thursday night and Sunday morning and sing their hearts out – even when those same hearts may be heavy with worry. I am in awe of tender-hearted people whose toughness comes out when they witness injustice.
I am in awe of gardeners who weed the Veterans Healing Garden in 90-degree weather and bakers who cultivate gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan recipes so everyone can enjoy. I am in awe of folks who nurture the spirituality of our young people in the midst of their own struggles. I am in awe of people who create safer spaces for LGBTQ+ folks and those who stand and sing outside detention centers. I am in awe of folks who organize food distributions for vulnerable neighbors and those who collect food for A Place to Turn. I am in awe of those who listen deeply to people in pain, who visit in nursing homes, who write cards.
A few years ago, a new book came out called Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life. Dr. Dacher Keltner, a psychologist at the University of California at Berkeley, defines awe as “the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your understanding of the world.” He describes the transformative power of awe in our lives. Awe slows our heart rate, quiets negative self-talk, puts our individual concerns in perspective, and even aids digestion.
While acknowledging that awe sometimes comes upon us unexpectedly, Dr. Keltner suggests that our capacity for awe can be developed with practice. He offers some practical guidance for how to cultivate awe: spend time in nature, practice mindfulness, choose an unfamiliar path, and focus on the ‘moral beauty’ of other people.
I am blessed to be surrounded by so people, in and around this congregation, whose ‘moral beauty’ shines bright. I am grateful for the ways you awaken me to awe. Thank you.
Peace, Debbie
[Quotes come from “How A Bit of Awe Can Improve Your Health,” by Hope Reese, January 3, 2023,
New York Times.]