Malcolm Forbes, long-time publisher of Forbes magazine, once described diversity as "the art of thinking independently together." Forbes was especially interested in competitive business advantages brought by diversity, such as supporting innovation through different approaches to problems. But there are implications in other settings, as well. What about in a spiritual community like ours... bound not by one single belief held by everyone but rather by a shared commitment to spiritual to intellectual freedom?
There is tension in this definition, too. A creative tension perhaps. A tension similar to one found in the fourth UU Principle: the free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Free... and responsible? Independent... and together? How does that work?
The creative interplay between personal freedom and shared responsiblity is core to who we are as human beings, present in every relationship... from families, to communities, to national politics. So, which is more important? When? How do we know? And what do we do when two deeply held values clash?
This morning, we continue our exploration of the pluralistic side of human nature ('humans being'). Offering a reflection is Director of the Library at Amherst College, Martin Garnar. Martin has been recognized for his work to promote and safeguard intellectual freedom; he served as editor of the 10th edition of the Intellectual Freedom Manual.
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Worship Leader: Rev. Dr. Jason Seymour
Worship Associate: Martin Garnar
Music: Elisabeth Weber
Offering recipient: Gurau & Krewski Funds (scholarship funds for spiritual development for adults & youth)
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UUSGS Meetinghouse