Wisdom Libraries
I once heard a story about a man who had been a very successful athlete and student. He won scholarships and promotions at work. He was respected in the community and had a wonderful family.
One day however, he made a major mistake that cost him his job. He was so devastated that he took his own life. Everyone was shocked that this man who had so much to live for, would do such a thing.
Because he had no experience with losing and regaining hope, he chose a permanent solution to a temporary problem. What for many would have felt like a difficult loss, was for him an irredeemable tragedy.
I’ve spoken with some of you recently about how Olympic athletes must become expert at making mistakes and at losing.
When someone asks me why the Fellowship uses themes like Evil, Redemption and Forgiveness, I explain that by sharing our own lived experiences with these age-old concepts, we are building “libraries of wisdom” in our own hearts, minds, families and communities.
We build these “wisdom libraries” so that when tough times arrive, as they are bound to, and when we have to make tough decisions, as we often must, we will have stories and resources to guide us.
Our themes give us the opportunity to develop life competencies when we are not in the middle of conflict, confusion, guilt, loss or regret.
I remember a mother in Tulsa who was responsible for the death of her own child in a car accident, who found her way back from guilt and despair to a vibrant, full and meaningful life. The witness and wisdom of other congregants was a huge part of her healing.
I rely on the stories of people who have recovered from addictions, depressions, minor embarrassments and major transgressions, to regain respect, a livelihood, love, and trust.
Talking about redemption means telling each other stories about what we’ve suffered, the mistakes we’ve made, and how we managed to keep moving forward with dignity, meaning and joy.
I look forward to us adding our insights and experiences to our wisdom library this month of March!
March 19th features Egg Dyeing and other fun!
After receiving her Master of Divinity degree from Bangor Theological Seminary in 2009, Rev. Prose served the All Souls Unitarian Church of Tulsa Oklahoma from 2010 to 2023. As the Executive Minister of this 2,000 member congregation (one of the largest UU churches in the US), she led a staff of 20 or more. Rev. Prose moved to Hood River over a year ago and has been enjoying spending time with her granddaughter in Washougal. Rev. Prose also serves as Executive Director of the Portland-based Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice (“IMIrJ”). We are pleased to support Rev. Prose as she continues to lead IMIrJ’s vital programs while also serving as our minister this coming year.