The Saving Power of Awe

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 UU’s. 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 we could learn and expand our imagination through “transcending our current understanding of the world?” 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.

Meet Our Guest

Rev. Jo is the Executive Director for UU Mass Action and with passion and zest mobilizes and organizes with the many UU Mass Action campaigns. Jo is also kept busy as a chaplain at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and caring for her 2 year old. She loves liberation, the ocean, and a fine chicken dinner.

This week’s service will be held in the sanctuary.