We join together here at our Onion in the Valley knowing that we are in varied places on life’s trajectory. Grace and Hope have been a theme for contemplation and connection during January. A knee jerk response as I view Hope has been that of an indulgence, taking time away from the tools to be used to make happen…whatever goal is there before me. Now, as I have paused to reflect, perhaps I am mixing Hope with Intent; and that Hope opens a larger and enduring experience. Perhaps this is why the following thought, by a famous UU theologian, has intrigued me over the years.

“We must walk consciously only part way to our goal, and then leap into the darkness to our success” –Henry David Thoreau.