Blessed are those

Blessed are those who yearn for deepening more than escape; who are not afraid to grow in spirit.

Blessed are those who take seriously the bonds of community; who regularly join in celebration and learning; who come as much to care for others as to receive care for themselves.

Blessed are those who bring their children; who invite their friends to come along, to join in fellowship, service, learning, and growth.

Blessed are those who support their community and its work by their regular, sustained, and generous giving; and who give of themselves no less than their money.

Blessed are those who know that the world is often imperfect, yet rather than harbor feelings of anger or disappointment, remain mindful, honest, and open with others in their concerns and needs.

Blessed are those who when asked to serve, do it gladly; who realize that change is brought about through human meeting, who share in the work that needs to be done, and stay till the end.

Blessed are those who speak their minds while remaining open-minded, who can take and give criticism; who keep alive their sense of humor.

Blessed are those who know that the work of each individual, each relationship, and each community, is the transformation of society; who have a vision within and transcending the present, and who do not shrink for controversy, sacrifice, or change.

Blessed are they indeed.


-adapted from John Buehrens "Blessed are those", Unitarian Universalist Responsive Reading #728