In his book “Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder”, Dachner Keltner, a psychology scholar, defines “awe” as “the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your current understanding of the world.” In my experience, “awe” is a concept NOT often felt by UUs. We greatly value logic, rationality, and critical thinking, which though are important, can sometimes block our ability to experience “awe.” Being less familiar with awe blocks our ability to be open to miracles and wonder, and isn’t this a moment where we could really use a miracle? Where could we learn and expand our imagination through “transcending our current understanding of the world” and how does this allow for deeper connection with each other and imagination? Let us explore this and allow ourselves to feel awe, and allow it to lead us to a world much more just and wonder-filled than the one we currently live in.
Rev Pamela Barz began her ministry serving the UU Church of Saco-Biddeford and now has returned to Maine where she offers coaching to help clergy and others get "unstuck" and live from deep gladness. Contact her at: .