We spend much of our lives grasping at the world, reaching for the things we believe will fulfill our wants, needs and desires. A few months ago, I broke both arms in a bike accident, leaving me unable to grasp. My frustration eventually gave way to a question: What if the greatest fulfillment in life comes not from grasping the world, but from being grasped by it?
The Rev. Dr. Robert M. Hardies returns this month for his fourth summer guest preaching at UUSMV. In June, Rev. Hardies completed nineteen years as Senior Minister of All Souls Church, Unitarian in Washington, DC. During Rev. Hardies ministry this dynamic, multicultural congregation grew in membership, attendance, and influence, becoming a flagship church for progressive religion in our nation’s capital. This summer, Rob begins a one-year sabbatical to rest, reflect and discern the next chapter of his ministry. Rob lives in Washington with his husband, Christopher Nealon, and their 8-year-old son, Nico.