When it comes to curiosity, we often leave out ourselves. Saint Augustine captured this perfectly when he wrote, “People go abroad to wonder at the heights of mountains, a the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motions of the stars, and they pass by themselves without wondering.” So, this month you are invited to get curious and wonder about yourself. Aim your inquisitiveness your way.
Time at the family dinner table is something that is short supply with what seems to be a schedule of activities for children – and sometimes even us adults! Here’s an activity for families that is include in our theme packet on what it means to be a people of curiosity. Please try this out if you’re at home with the family or having friends over for dinner. It’s a great way to find out more about everyone!
Gather as a family before an evening meal. Have each member of the family name something they are curious about or something they learned that day. If you like, light candles as you share. Consider saying candle-lighting words that affirm asking questions, for example, “We give thanks for our curiosity and the answers it brings.” Avoid editing or answering one another’s questions, correcting information, or exchanging dialogue until everyone has shared. Where possible, provide resources and encourage family members to seek answers themselves. It is okay to validate questioning as a process that is as important, if not more important than, determining answers. (To keep this activity popular, avoid pressuring family members to do research every time a “wondering” is shared.)
At the end of the six weeks, you’ll want to make sure you’re a part of one of the small groups that meets. The purpose of these small groups is to provide you with an opportunity for self-reflection with witnesses to your experience. One of our small groups has already met, but if you’re interested in joining one, there’s one on Monday, May 13th at 7:00 pm in Delta. Please contact Rev. Samaya if you’d like to join it