Musicians practice; so do athletes, doctors and lawyers. We are practicing Unitarians and many of us practice meditation. But where is the discipline of practice in the business world, in our volunteer organizations, in family life, in academia (once we graduate from the multiplication tables)? Practice enables inspiration to become reality, and the creation of excellence to become reliable. Practice helps us connect with the audience for our work — bringing value to them and enriching our careers. Practice teaches us how to manage ourselves to achieve greater meaning and joy in all the realms of our lives. We will explore the essential nature of practice and learn simple, practical ways to cultivate an attitude of practice in our professional and personal lives.
Joan Oliver Goldsmith's book "How Can We Keep From Singing" explores how making music – or pursuing any life passion – can provide source material for creating a joyful, deeply spiritual life. Goldsmith reviews classical music for St. Paul Pioneer Press and sings with Minnesota Chorale.
Continuing our focus on global ecology, J. Drake Hamilton, Science Policy Director at Minnesotans for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ME3), will lead a discussion of the threats and opportunities created by global warming. Our region is in a unique position, with many opportunities to invest in global warming solutions. ME3 is a private nonprofit organization working to lead the transition to a clean, efficient, and fair energy system. Hamilton's responsibilities include scientific analysis, policy development, and outreach on global climate change and mercury pollution, together with clean technology solutions such as wind power and other renewable energy. ME3's work can be found at www.me3.org
America has long been recognized as a land of rich religious diversity. The number of alternative religious movements in the U.S. has steadily grown over the last few decades adding to this tapestry. This program will focus on a group of uniquely American religious movements known as the UFO religions, including some of the more well known alien religious organizations such as Heaven's Gate, Unarius Academy of Science, and the Raelian Movement International.
Jeremy Carney is a committed humanist who happens to be fascinated by the worlds various religions. He considers himself an "amateur theologian" on the unusual religions out there. Professionally, Jeremy is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Minnesota State University Minnesota.
What would we see if a hurricane like Katrina hit Fargo-Moorhead or perhaps a super tornado? Are there those who live in poverty in our communities? What is the extent of poverty here? Some answers for these, and other questions, at our post-Thanksgiving Sunday program.
Cheryl has worked with legal services programs in North Dakota and Minnesota, and is currently teaching in the Clinical Education Program at the UND School of Law.