Monday Message #4

Friends,

I hope you are well today. Today, I feel I need an extra dose of courage and faith. I am
not easily disturbed by unwanted changes, but my reading this weekend of the changes
the new administration has put into practice, I nearly lost my breath! I would like to
share my thoughts on how I might respond.

As I reflect on the sources of inspiration for me, many religious and philosophical
references come to mind. My faith has been shaped by a lifelong relationship with God
since my baptism as an infant. Further, I source the Book of Matthew in the New
Testament of the Bible in which “do unto others as you would have done unto you” is
stated. Granted that these religious sources may not resonate with you, I consider St.
Augustine of Hippo’s preaching of the Golden Rule helpful. More universally accepted is
the categorical imperative of Immanuel Kant who has much the same message relating
to moments of courage. He distinguishes, further, that positive freedom is a result of
service to others, whereas negative freedom is unconstrained action, or license.
Considering this proverb and Kant’s imperative, I feel called in duty to use my gifts and
beliefs in service to the common good. I love the outdoors, especially for hiking. In a
more utilitarian way, I have used natural materials to solve formulary solutions in
personal care products. I believe in the science of keeping air clean as well. And I
believe in freedom of sexual orientation and gender identity according to how each is
built. Freedom is at the base of this right.

I am both a Christian and an entrepreneur. Compelled to serve using my gifts, I will take
stock of what is, imagine a better way, and act. I am listening to the various points of
view of our societal situation, engaging in conversation, and looking to join a community
that wants to evolve to a just place. Helping the poor and displaced, expecting fair and
just governance of our constitution, and human equality are qualities of life that I care
about. I will continue to listen until I see a way I can help. And I shall pray for guidance.
My Divine source will show me how I can help.

We are taught that there are varieties of gifts and one body. For each gift to be
effective, all gifts need to function and must act together.

I don’t see a way out of this unless we all use our gifts in service to a common cause.
Faith will have to keep us connected and hopeful as we go.