Submission 338
Cheryl Parsons
Unitarian Universalists of the Cumberland Valley (Boiling Springs, PA) 7217
What is your suggestion or idea?
In the introduction to C-2.2 second paragraph, change the word Love to Compassion and rewrite the paragraph as follows:
Compassion unites us and is at the center of our shared values. We are accountable to one another for living our shared values through compassionate words and actions and by actively seeking understanding, building relationships, and cultivating empathy.
In the diagram, replace the word Love at the center with Compassion.
What is the reason for your amendment idea?
I believe that Love is too ambiguous a term and sounds trite and sugary. I am grateful that it is featured in our new statement of values, but believe the word Compassion will resonate more deeply with our members, as well as represent our faith tradition to those outside of our church communities in a more meaningful way. I also believe that it needs definition that will guide us to more deeply live our values.
Have you discussed this idea with your congregation or other UUs?
Our congregation has been preoccupied with internal issues and few people have engaged in this process. I have attended Zoom sessions with another member and have generally discussed this with our minister.