Pastoral Letter
Beth Leehy, Intern Minister
Conejo Valley UU Fellowship
March 20, 2003
Dear friends,
I have been speaking and standing vigil against the war for months now. And
although I am one of many speaking out, it seems we are not heard by those
speaking on behalf of the United States of America and making our military
decisions.
I am absolutely against this pre-emptive, aggressive strike against Iraq. I
am absolutely supportive of our military folks who choose to serve our
country in this difficult way in this difficult time. I am absolutely a US
patriot, and take seriously my responsibility to make sure I try to make
this the best country we can be. I cannot change the past, but I must try
and influence the future.
I mourn. I pray. I stand in public vigil with others or alone. My feelings
on this subject are too strong for me to sit at home and do nothing. I
counsel loving responses to those who meet our nonviolent witness with rude
gestures and remarks. I thank those who share their opinions (sometimes
loudly and colorfully) with me. I listen respectfully to those who speak
politely to me. I try to be a "non-anxious presence" for those around me.
I talk to my child and answer his fearful questions honestly and carefully:
"Yes," I say, "I work in a building like the ones that the airplanes
flew into on September 11.
"No, I don't think airplanes are going to fly into my building.
"Yes, the US is going to drop bombs on places and people in another
country.
"No, they really haven't done anything to us directly.
"No, I don't think they have the capability to fly bombs into
Pasadena.
"Yes, I am sad about this.
"No, we don't have to talk about it anymore right now."
What ever brings you comfort and makes you think deeply is right. Our
country and our world need each of us to be our true self to the best of
our ability, especially right now.
If there is to be peace, it must begin with me.
Singing in faith,
Beth Leehy
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