Yesterday afternoon I conducted a Memorial Service for a woman who has been a Unitarian Universalist almost all her life. She was 93, and among her many interests were the arts, the League of Women Voters, and the issues of “Yellow Dog Democrats.” She was very active in our Women’s Day Alliance group.

As I was standing outside the door of our Raible Chapel before the service began two of the long time pillars of our church approached me. When they asked me how the campaign was going, I told them about some of my recent activities - I’ve been to Atlanta, Georgia to preach at the Installation of Rev. Anthony David, to St. Paul, Minnesota to participate in a memorial service for Rev. Roy Phillips, to Baltimore to deliver the annual Union Service in honor of William Ellery Channing, and then to lead the retreat of the Joseph Priestly District UU Ministers in Delaware. One of them said, “Remember when you were just back from observing the UUA Board meetings and told us all about it? You were so excited!” she said.

She was right, I am excited! I love board meetings when the people who hold our churches, and in this case, our association, in trust, are clear about their tasks, know who they are serving, and participate fully in significant values-laden decisions.

I was impressed by the work of our UUA Board. I know not all of the board’s decisions have been welcomed in the larger association and I come to the Presidency with a vision of new possibility. While I was there I was reassured by the board members’ integrity, skill and call to serve our larger association. I have a keen sense we could work well together in our respective roles and responsibilities.

In the midst of my travels I have been thanked by people for my “sacrifice” in running for UUA President. I have appreciated their gratitude. However, I need to say this is not a sacrifice. I am excited to play a larger role in an institution that serves its people and its mission well and makes effective use of its resources. The possibility of bringing my skills and experience to the table to do such work as President of the UUA is a joy!