What is it like to B(e)UU today?

What is it like for you to be a Unitarian Universalist right now?

Specifically, what is it like for you to be a UU at BUU during this time?

We want to hear from you!

A few years ago, it was Juliana who first noted that "Borderlands UU" could be restated as "Be UU." Her insight into our name has captured the imagination of many of us ever since (Thank you, Juliana!).  In the midst of a pandemic, social uprising for racial justice, threats to our US democracy, and economic downturn, being a UU has changed.  Our church gatherings have changed, our Sunday worship has changed, our orientation to the upcoming election has changed, and our lives have changed. 

In the midst of all this change, what does being a Unitarian Universalist mean to you in relationship to BUU? 

In 25 words or less, share with us what your current experience is of being UU. We are requiring this brevity so that all responses can be shown here with equity and readability. All responses - yes, all responses -  from our Members, Friends, and Guests will be posted below.

Next Tuesday, September 1, we will use all submissions to create a Word Cloud and post it here. A "word cloud" is an artistic expression of short responses that emphasizes key words by increasing their size.

By replying below, you will not only be sharing your individual voice, but will also be creating an image of what we are saying collectively as a congregation.

Members, Friends & Guest Responses

To me Borderlands is a source of good friendships and continuing challenges to stretch my imagination and understanding of the world we live in.
- Diane Farone

A surreal privilege! It validates the power of intention as I searched for a place to explore what religion and spirituality means for me and my family.
- Kristin Wisneski-Blum

As Jim and I isolate along the shores of Lake Superior, we're grateful to participate in Zoom groups and hugely appreciate getting to know our Baja 4 UUers during the Sunday Services.
- Barbara Lund

It's like, I am free to explore parts of me that have been hidden. It is a place where respect for self and respect for others is practiced.
- Ernie Lopez

Though not as active as I once was, it’s always with pride that I claim affiliation with UU’s!
- Sandy Lefebvre

Though I'm miles away in Wisconsin, I feel connected. Sometimes conjuring names, faces, and voices, I almost feel like I'm in church on a Sunday morning. Imagination and memory are powerful human attributes.
- Russ Peterson

Being UU at BUU in 2020 means I’m in connection, in relationship and in service with People Who Care, who value participation in a community of kind, loving folks standing together for justice, for the Earth that is our home, for human rights and dignity for ALL. BUU is a blessing I cherish deeply.
- Jeanne Macauley

Active, contributing member of community by using my gifts, talents and abilities. Growing spiritually through Theology Café. Nurturing friendships.
- Sonya Edwards

This congregation is my community. We truly do follow our mission statement of caring for our souls, each other, our church home, and our community ins o many ways! Zoom meetings aren't church, but our relationships are.
​- Judy Harmer

I am a UU because I believe in our principals, and hope that we will create an 8th principal addressing JUSTICE for all people regardless of their skin color, gender, or what country they have left behind to become a U.S. citizen.
- Dorothy McKenna

I'm feeling grounded and peaceful in the BUU garden among the birds, butterflies, roses, cacti and flowers. Communicating with BUUers gives me hope for the future of our country and planet. 
-Ginny Lopez

During these isolating times, it is comforting to know that love and fellowship exist among us as we strive to help others and to achieve a more equitable and peaceful world.
- Mary Lou James

I am grateful for the UU community as we endure these days. I do feel like there are strong locked arms holding my back.
-Barbara Lemmon

My BUU connection is more important than ever, providing support and inspiration, with so many members modeling compassion and resilience.
- Jean Richon

I am more grateful than ever to be part of B(e)UU. I was so scared, feeling separated from the congregation & our connections. But we have made wonderful, possibly deeper connections in new ways. Wonderful to participate in Baja 4 worship as well.
- Martha House

I am a dedicated UU as I believe in our principles, certainly our principle that states the dignity and self worth for ALL, regardless of color, sexual orientation, or how much money the individual has in the bank. ALL lives are sacred and precious.
- Dorothy McKenna

Feeling a bit unconnected at this point up here in WI. But love the Baja services-- have yet to join the zoom fellowship. Love the pics, poems and pieces from you all (Facebook and the Newsletter) 
- Susan Peterson

Not just tolerating, but welcoming, indeed reveling in our differences! 
- Susan Kirk

Learning a great lesson since my acceptance of becoming a member of BUU. That ongoing lesson is... Caring Beyond Belief. I am truly grateful.
​- Ken Lopez

"Through today's challenges, BUU grounds me. Even though we are not in person, I feel supported and deeply connected to live our UUism out loud." 
​- Rev. Matthew