Submission 199
Elizabeth DeCoux
Buckman Bridge Unitarian Universalist Society (Orange Park, FL) 2927
What is your suggestion or idea?
The interdependence language should strongly state how we will treat other beings with mutuality, care, and respect. It should also clearly acknowledge that WE have broken bonds. This is the language I suggest, with proposed additions shown in red.
Interdependence. We honor the sacred interdependent web of all existence.
We covenant to cherish Earth and all beings by creating and nurturing relationships of mutuality, care and respect. With humility and reverence, we acknowledge our place in the great web of life, and we work to repair harm , the bonds we have broken, and damaged relationships.
What is the reason for your amendment idea?
Our treatment of other beings is the great moral issue of our time. Nothing reveals our faith’s true nature more than the way we treat those who are absolutely helpless. It is deeply distressing that the powerful language of the original Interdependence section has been weakened. We must speak for those who have no voice.
Have you discussed this idea with your congregation or other UUs?
So far, I have spoken with perhaps half a dozen UUs who believe this language should be strengthened in a way similar to what I have suggested.