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Election Saturation: The Meaning of Winning

Over the past few days, I have noticed something – my neighbors, friends, and family seem a
little…something. Political signs are coming down and being replaced with early signs of the
Christmas season – perhaps to bring some light into the world so we can see the stars. I would be
negligent to ignore the fact that we, as a country, have just completed a long season of our
airwaves thick with ads and the persistent buzz of politics. For months, we have been inundated
with messages urging us to vote, to choose sides, and to rally behind a candidate. The sheer
volume of it all can feel overwhelming and leave us disillusioned. There is even a new clinical-
ish phrase that is being tossed about referencing these feelings – election saturation.

And in the middle of it all, I am left with the question: What does it really mean to win?
For candidates, winning is straightforward: securing the majority, getting the office, and having a
mandate to lead. For voters, it’s more complicated. The act of voting is a statement of values,
hopes, and fears. Yet, once the dust settles and the confetti is swept away, the real question
emerges—what have we truly won?

Our culture loves the idea of winning. Sports, business, even social media followers—the more,
the better. Politics often gets wrapped up in this same competitive fervor. But the truth is, victory
at the polls doesn’t always translate into meaningful change or lasting impact. Just as a sports
team might win a game but still have deeper issues to address, an electoral victory can be hollow
if it’s not accompanied by genuine progress.

If the win comes at the expense of integrity, compassion, or unity, can we call it a victory at all?
When the focus is purely on defeating an opponent rather than on building something better
together, we may find that winning feels more like losing. This isn’t about political parties or
ideologies; it’s about the deeper currents that run through our democratic process.
Election cycles often leave us divided, exhausted, and disillusioned. In the pursuit of a win, we
may sacrifice relationships, compromise our values, or lose sight of the common good. The
rhetoric heats up, and the world gets reduced to black and white, us versus them.

And then, when the results come in, nearly half the population feels defeated. This constant
pendulum swing can create a sense of instability, as if we’re always on the verge of upheaval.
The cost of winning, in this context, is a fractured society.

What if we looked beyond the final count and saw the election process as a moment to engage
deeply with one another? Instead of seeing our neighbors as opponents to defeat, what if we
viewed them as fellow citizens, each holding pieces of the larger puzzle? True victory might be
less about who gets the most votes and more about whether we emerge from the process with a
stronger sense of community, shared purpose, and a commitment to understanding.

Winning, in this light, means ensuring that every person feels heard, valued, and included,
regardless of the outcome. It’s about finding ways to bridge divides and create a sense of shared
responsibility for the future. This kind of victory doesn’t show up in the headlines or the polling
numbers, but it lays the groundwork for a healthier, more resilient society.

The day after the election, life goes on. We wake up to the same sunrise, face the same
challenges, and live alongside the same neighbors. The real work of winning begins then. It
involves healing wounds, rebuilding trust, and finding common ground. It’s about asking
ourselves what kind of world we want to build together, beyond the ballot box.

This isn’t easy. It requires us to listen deeply, to empathize with those whose experiences differ
from our own, and to resist the urge to retreat into the comfort of our echo chambers. But it’s in
this challenging space that we find the true meaning of winning—not in the victory itself, but in
the work that follows.

As we navigate yet another season of election saturation, let’s remember that the process is
bigger than any one candidate or issue. It’s an opportunity to engage, to reflect, and to participate
in the grand experiment of democracy.

The next time we cast a vote, let’s consider not just who we want to win, but what kind of victory
we are hoping for. Is it one that leaves us divided and bitter? Or is it a win that draws us closer to
a shared vision, even if it means we need to compromise, listen, and learn?

In the end, the true measure of winning is not the tally of votes but the health of our community
and the strength of our relationships. It’s about finding ways to turn election saturation into an
opportunity for deeper connection and understanding.

Maybe then, we will have truly won something that matters.

Remembrance: Honoring Life and Death

This is by far, my favorite time of year. The summer heat has finally subsided and has given way
to the colorful falling leaves and the freshness of the crisp air. Late October and early November
carry a unique beauty—it’s a season where cultures around the world converge to honor the dead
and reflect on mortality. Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
each bring unique ways to remember the departed, celebrating the eternal bond between the
living and the dead.

Growing up, Halloween was a time to dress up as my favorite hero or a career I aspired to live
into as an adult. I appreciate it’s history, as Halloween’s roots trace back to ancient Celtic
traditions, particularly Samhain, which marked the end of harvest and the beginning of winter—a
time when the veil between worlds was believed to thin. People wore costumes to confuse
wandering spirits, and they lit bonfires for protection. Today, Halloween has become a fun,
lighthearted celebration filled with costumes, haunted houses, and a touch of eerie wonder. Still,
underneath the revelry lies a subtle acknowledgment of life’s fragility, reminding us to savor
each moment.

As a person of faith, All Saints’ Day – which is observed on November 1 st or the 1 st Sunday in
November – plays a special role in my life. This is a day where many Christians honor the saints
and martyrs who have come before. Unlike Halloween’s playful spirits, All Saints’ Day is a
solemn reminder of those who devoted their lives to faith and compassion. This day invites us to
consider not only the famed saints but also the “everyday saints” among us—the quiet heroes
who, through acts of love and kindness, embody the light of faith. In remembering them, we
connect with our roots, drawing inspiration from their courage and commitment.

My absolute favorite celebrations originates from Indigenous Mexican traditions, Día de los
Muertos – November 1-2 -and is a joyous, colorful celebration honoring deceased loved ones.
Families gather to create ofrendas – or altars – adorned with photos, marigolds, candles, and food,
inviting the spirits to reunite with the living. In my home every year, we put together an ofrenda
and we share stories of those who have passed – this is an important tradition that keeps the
memories of those who have gone before alove and well within our home. Unlike Halloween’s
ghosts, these spirits are warmly welcomed as cherished guests. Día de los Muertos serves as a
beautiful reminder that death is not an end but part of a continuum, a shared journey with those
who came before.

These traditions—Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and Día de los Muertos—invite us to reflect on
mortality in different ways. While Halloween asks us to confront our fears of the unknown, All
Saints’ Day encourages us to consider the legacy of goodness we can leave behind. Día de los
Muertos reminds us to embrace memory, celebrating life even amid death. Together, these
observances remind us that while death is a part of life, so too is the love, joy, and spirit that
continue on.

In remembering, we carry forward the essence of those who have left us, keeping them alive in
our hearts and stories. Whether through costume and laughter, prayer and gratitude, or colorful ofrendas, these days invite us to honor those we love, embracing a cycle of life and death with
reverence and joy.

I hope you find joy and celebration in the remembrance of this season!

The Not-So Obvious Purpose of Pilgrimage

In 2014, I had the privilege to visit the Holy Land, a dream for so many people of faith. Now, as
I look back on it a decade later, I can still feel the echoes of that journey in my life. It’s strange
and wonderful to reflect on how that time left a lasting imprint on my soul. And now, when I
think of the word pilgrimage, I realize it means much more than simply visiting historic sites. It’s
a journey with purpose, a quest to connect deeply with something sacred and eternal.

A pilgrimage is a journey that moves you both physically and spiritually, taking you outside the
familiar and inviting you into experiences rich with meaning. Walking the paths and witnessing
the sights of the Holy Land brought scripture to life in a vivid and unforgettable way. Standing
on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, I imagined Jesus calling to the fishermen, the air filled with
peace that transcends time. I remember the quiet power of the Garden of Gethsemane, where the
olive trees stood as living witnesses to Jesus’ final hours. Each place carried a story that I could
feel deeply.

Jerusalem itself was a revelation, a city where the sacred meets the everyday in bustling markets,
ancient walls, and people from all over the world. Walking through the winding streets, I was
overwhelmed by the sense of history, resilience, and devotion that permeated everything –
including the smells and sounds of the area. Here, in a place where diverse faiths converge and
coexist, the tapestry of humanity became so real to me. In that moment, I realized pilgrimage is
about finding connection—not just with God or a specific place, but with the generations of
people who came before and those who will follow after.

What I learned on that pilgrimage has continued to shape me. At the time, I expected it to be
meaningful, but I didn’t fully understand that the meaning I anticipated was not the meaning that
stayed with me. My journey wouldn’t end when I left the Holy Land. In some ways, the
experience opened my eyes to the sacredness that can be found at home, too. While the Holy
Land is unique in its significance, the real essence of pilgrimage can live on in our everyday
lives, as we seek to draw closer to God and each other.

Looking back ten years later, I realize that the gift of pilgrimage isn’t limited to that trip. The
memories, insights, and feelings it stirred in me are still part of my faith journey today. Perhaps
that’s the magic of pilgrimage—though it may last just a few days or weeks, the experience has a
way of unfolding for years, deepening and enriching our lives in unexpected ways. For me, that
journey to the Holy Land remains a reminder of faith’s beauty, mystery, and the unending search
for connection with the divine.

The Power of Adaptability

Recently, I found myself in a meeting where the subject of resiliency was introduced. The
facilitator of this particular meeting used the word in a way I have heard utilized again and again
– and it was in the context of being proud of the work of the team and being ‘resilient in the face
of adversity.’ I have long spoken about the critical differences between being resilient and
surviving. While both concepts might seem similar at first glance—both involve enduring
hardship—there’s a world of difference in how we approach challenges depending on which path
we follow.

When we think of survival, our minds often go to the basics: securing food, shelter, and safety.
The focus of survival is simply staying alive—getting through a crisis, making it to the next day,
the next meal, the next breath. Survivalism is driven by instinct, by an urgent need to escape
danger and keep going, no matter the cost. In moments of great struggle, we all have our
survivalist instincts, and sometimes that is enough. Survivalism often leaves little room for
growth. Its priority is preservation over progress. The constant battle to stay afloat can make the
world feel like a battlefield where every day is a fight for existence. In this state, fear can take
over, and when we’re only surviving, there’s little space for hope, joy, or meaning.

Resilience, on the other hand, offers something more. It’s not just about bouncing back or
making it through adversity—it’s about learning to adapt, to grow through the challenge, to
thrive in the long run, and build skills and tools that best support our forward movement. When
we are resilient, we find ways not just to survive but to live more fully in the face of adversity.
It’s a conscious choice to stand up again, to rebuild after things have fallen apart, and to keep
believing in a better tomorrow. Resilience allows us to see opportunities for transformation
where survivalism might only see obstacles. Resilience is grounded in hope, faith, and a belief in
one’s own capacity for renewal, even after the darkest times.

So many of us have been in survival mode lately. The pressures of life, whether they are
financial, emotional, or spiritual, can make us feel like we’re constantly fighting just to make it
through the day. But I invite you to think about resilience. What does it look like in your life to
embed and build tools and skills, so we not only survive but we thrive? How might you, in the
midst of hardship, find joy, peace, and hope?

Being resilient doesn’t mean denying the difficulty of what we face—it means allowing those
challenges to refine us, rather than define us.

Embracing the Power of Awe

Every mid-October, my daughter and I make an early 4:00am date and we head to the
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. We buddle up, drive in the dark, and are welcomed to
the balloon park to the smell of warm breakfast burritos and pinion coffee – nothing beats this
welcome! This is a special time where the sky over Albuquerque New Mexico transforms into a
living canvas of color, movement, and wonder. Approximately 700 hot air balloons lift off,
filling the crisp desert air with vibrant hues and intricate designs. The Albuquerque International
Balloon Fiesta is not just the world’s largest balloon festival—it’s a celebration of awe, and a
reminder of the magic that exists in our world, if only we stop to take it in.

Awe is a deeply human experience. It’s that overwhelming sense of wonder we feel when we
encounter something vast, beautiful, or beyond comprehension. Whether it’s standing at the edge
of the Grand Canyon, watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky, or, in this case, seeing
the sun rise over a horizon filled with hundreds of floating balloons, awe taps into something
primal within us. It reminds us that we are part of something larger, something wondrous.
The Balloon Fiesta is a perfect setting for awe. Imagine arriving before dawn, bundled up against
the cool autumn air. The field is dark, but the anticipation is palpable. Suddenly, the Dawn Patrol
balloons take off, their glowing orbs lighting up the pre-dawn sky like lanterns. As the sun
begins to rise, hundreds of balloons inflate in waves, their massive forms towering above you.
The Mass Ascension – when all the balloons take flight – is a breathtaking sight. The sky becomes
a kaleidoscope of color, as balloons of every shape and size gently float upward, some shaped
like animals and other special shapes, others like traditional teardrops.

But it’s not just the visual spectacle that makes the Balloon Fiesta awe-inspiring. There’s the
gentle whoosh of burners igniting, the sound of a thousand people collectively gasping as the
first balloon takes off, and the feeling of being surrounded by people from all over the world, all
here to share in this singular experience. The event engages all the senses, immersing you fully
in the moment.

In a world that often feels heavy with responsibilities, challenges, and noise, it’s easy to become
disconnected from our sense of wonder. Yet, it’s moments of awe that remind us of the beauty
and vastness of life. These moments have the power to inspire, to heal, and to reignite our
curiosity. Awe is not a frivolous emotion; it’s essential for our well-being.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a celebration of awe in its purest form. It’s a
reminder of the importance of taking a step back from the rush of daily life to appreciate the
beauty that surrounds us. As you watch the balloons float gracefully into the sky, you’re
reminded that there’s still magic in the world—and that we’re all a part of it.

So, whether you’re able to attend the Balloon Fiesta or simply find awe in the world around you,
take a moment to let that feeling of wonder wash over you. Embrace it. Nurture it. It is in those
moments of awe, we not only find joy, but a deeper connection to the world and to ourselves.

Infusing Calm and Joy Into Your Life: Simple Practices for Daily Serenity

I was reminded this weekend of the importance of finding calm and joy in one’s everyday. My
daughter was away on a retreat of her own and I found myself sitting in silence and gratitude.
For the first time in as long as I can remember, I did not have obligations outside of caring for,
and tending to my own self. There is a beauty in these moments – and I believe it is up to us to
capture these moments as often as we can.

Please enjoy these gentle practices that can help you nurture serenity and calm in your daily
routine.

 Mindfulness We often rush through our days, hardly aware of the beauty surrounding
us. Mindfulness is a way to pause and savor the present. It can be as simple as noticing
the warmth of the morning sun, the aroma of coffee, or the sound of birds outside your
window. When we bring attention to these small moments, we open the door to calm and
joy.
Try this: Every morning, take 5 minutes to sit quietly and breathe deeply. Focus on the
sensations in your body and your surroundings. This brief practice helps set a peaceful tone for
the day ahead.

 Connecting with Nature Nature is a profound source of peace. Whether it’s a walk in
the park, sitting by a lake, or even tending to a small garden, spending time outdoors
reminds us of life’s simple, enduring rhythms. The natural world has a way of grounding
us and reconnecting us to a slower pace.
Try this: Once a day, step outside, take a few deep breaths, and really pay attention. Notice the
way the light filters through the leaves, or the way the breeze feels against your skin. Let these
sensations bring you back to the present moment.

 Gratitude Rituals Gratitude is one of the easiest ways to bring joy into your life. By
regularly reflecting on what you’re thankful for, you shift your focus from what’s missing
to what’s already abundant. This shift creates a sense of fullness and contentment, no
matter the circumstances.
Try this: At the end of each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be
grand or life-changing—small joys like a kind smile from a stranger or a delicious meal count
just as much.

 Creative Expression Engaging in creative activities can be a powerful way to release
stress and infuse joy into your life. Whether it’s painting, writing, cooking, or playing an
instrument, creativity allows you to express yourself and feel a sense of accomplishment.
This flow state brings a deep sense of joy.
Try this: Set aside 20 minutes a few times a week to do something creative. It doesn’t have to be
perfect—let go of the outcome and simply enjoy the process.

 Meaningful Connections In our digital age, it’s easy to feel disconnected from others,
even when we’re surrounded by people. But joy thrives in connection. Whether it’s
through a deep conversation with a friend, sharing laughter, or simply spending quality
time with loved ones, nurturing relationships is key to a joyful life.
Try this: Schedule a coffee date with a friend or family member you’ve been meaning to catch up
with. Use this time to truly listen and connect, without distractions.

 Embracing Stillness In a world that glorifies busyness, stillness is often undervalued.
Yet, it’s in moments of stillness that we can reconnect with ourselves, let go of stress, and
find clarity. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting in silence,
stillness invites calm and joy.
Try this: Spend a few minutes each day sitting in silence, without a screen, without distraction.
Notice your thoughts, but don’t judge them—just let them come and go. This practice helps
create a sense of spaciousness in your life.

 Acts of Kindness One of the most powerful ways to experience joy is by giving it away.
Acts of kindness—whether big or small—create ripples of positivity. When we help
others, we also nourish ourselves.
Try this: Perform a small act of kindness each day, whether it’s holding the door for someone,
offering a compliment, or donating to a cause you care about. Notice how these actions uplift
both you and others.

Infusing calm and joy into your life doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your routine. Often,
it’s about making small, intentional shifts—practices that bring you back to the present, connect
you with others, and allow you to savor life’s simple pleasures. These practices, over time,
cultivate a deep sense of peace and happiness that stays with you, even in life’s more challenging
moments.

So, start today. Breathe deeply, smile often, and remember that calm and joy are always within
reach.

Making One Whole

Before worship began this morning, I overhead a conversation from the pew behind me where
one person was telling another: “You know, God doesn’t give us any more than we can handle.”
Every part of me went tense and I resisted the urge to turn around and say: “Where in scripture
does it say that?” To be clear, this phrase is not used in scripture, and I am certain that God does
not tinker with us in this way. For some reason, we are inadvertently taught that we are in a
reward system with our Creator – that we are tested and we are born broken and in constant need
of fixing. I for one do not worship this God – I worship the God who loves me always, has made
me whole, and created me in perfection. A God who encourages me to strive to know these
things about myself and to live in a way that lives this message out to the world.

In our pursuit of well-being and living in wholeness, there’s often an underlying assumption that
we are broken, fragmented, or incomplete in some way. This narrative of wholeness is seen as a
destination we must reach — a final state of perfection where all the pieces of our life fit together
seamlessly. But what if being whole isn’t about becoming perfect, but about embracing every
part of ourselves, including the parts we sometimes wish away?

Society often equates wholeness with perfection. We’re told that to be whole, we must have
everything figured out — our mental health, relationships, careers, and self-worth. But striving
for perfection creates pressure, leading to anxiety and self-doubt. True wholeness isn’t about
fixing every flaw or becoming a better version of ourselves; it’s about learning to coexist with
our societal imperfections.

Think of a broken pot repaired with kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending cracks with gold. The
cracks aren’t hidden; they’re embraced and highlighted, making the pot more beautiful for its
imperfections. Similarly, embracing every part of us — our scars, mistakes, and fears — allows
us to live more fully.

In moments of struggle, instead of beating ourselves up for not having it all together, we can
ask, What do I need right now? It could be a break, a listening ear, or simply a moment to
breathe. Small acts of self-care, practiced consistently, can begin to heal the wounds of self-
judgment.

Human beings are wired for connection. Often, the parts of us that feel most fragmented are
those that we feel we must hide from others. But when we open up and share our vulnerabilities,
we invite others to do the same, creating space for authentic relationships that support our
healing. In therapy, for example, healing happens not because the therapist “fixes” us, but
because we’re given a space to be seen and heard without judgment. In these safe environments,
we start to reclaim the lost parts of ourselves, weaving them back into our story.

I believe it’s important to recognize that wholeness is not a final destination but an ongoing
process. Life will always bring new challenges, and with them, opportunities to grow and adapt.
Instead of waiting to feel whole before living fully, we can choose to live as we are — embracing
every piece of us as part of the beauty of being human.

The Power of Connection

Every time I return from a Chrysalis retreat, I am left with a sense of awe by those individuals
who are willing to be so venerable, expressive, and open to one-another. These are people who
do not always know each other, yet find themselves in a season in which the value of connection
with those with similar experiences to their own brings a sense of grounding and renewal.
In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, the value of genuine human connection
cannot be overstated. Connection is more than just communication; it’s about understanding,
empathy, and a shared experience that binds us together, often in ways we don’t fully realize
until moments of isolation or hardship arise.

Genuine connection requires presence, even in virtual spaces. It involves active listening,
attentiveness, and vulnerability—qualities that often get lost in a barrage of emojis, likes, and
surface-level conversations. While digital tools provide immense potential, they must be used
mindfully to deepen rather than dilute relationships.

Connection plays a powerful role in healing and emotional resilience. Whether during personal
challenges or collective crises, the bonds we form with others can be lifelines. Such acts of
connection in dark times demonstrate that we are not alone. They remind us that even in the
worst circumstances, human beings are capable of creating beauty, offering hope, and finding
joy. In this sense, connection isn’t just about companionship; it’s about survival, strength, and the
resilience of the human spirit.

At its core, the need for connection is a biological and emotional necessity. Humans are social
creatures, wired for cooperation, community, and belonging. The sense of safety and comfort
derived from knowing that someone understands us and is willing to stand with us is
immeasurable. Whether through family, friends, or broader communities, these relationships
anchor us and give life meaning.

In a world where we are often pushed towards individualism and self-sufficiency, it’s important
to remember that asking for help or reaching out for support is not a weakness. In fact, the ability
to seek connection during vulnerable times is one of the most courageous acts we can undertake.
We thrive, not in isolation, but in community.

Building meaningful relationships takes intention. Here are a few steps to foster deeper
connections in our lives:
 Be present: Whether in conversation or during shared activities, give your full attention
to the moment. Being present shows that you value the other person.
 Listen more: Active listening goes beyond waiting for your turn to speak. It’s about
understanding what the other person is feeling and reflecting on it.
 Show vulnerability: Opening up about your own struggles or emotions invites others to
do the same. This mutual trust strengthens bonds.
 Create shared experiences: Whether it’s something as simple as a weekly dinner with
friends or participating in a community event, shared experiences build lasting memories.

Some of the deepest connections can emerge in unexpected situations. Whether through brief
encounters with strangers or shared challenges in times of crisis, people can bond over a single
moment of empathy. It reminds us that connection isn’t just about long-lasting relationships but
also about moments of genuine human interaction.

Know this, while it’s easy to take relationships for granted in the rush of daily life, the value of
connection is immeasurable. It sustains us, heals us, and helps us find meaning. Whether through
digital means, personal encounters, or acts of shared humanity, nurturing connection is one of the
most important things we can do—for ourselves and for each other.