Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto

Always Learning

Dear Friends,

Thank you so much for the wonderful party you threw in my honor this past weekend. At such a busy time of year, I was really touched at the gifts of your time, presence, and caring that shone through in every aspect of the party. The room was strung with streamers and filled with flowers. It was tremendous to see so many home cooked foods when I know many of us hardly ever have time to cook. There were many delicious dishes to be had, and then I found out that you had compiled a cookbook of all your creations — I will always treasure it. I was so excited to see compost bins about — I think that’s a UUCPA first! I think everyone was amazed to find out that our plates and cups were compostable. (I heard a rumor Susan drove all the way to San Jose to get them.) Then after lunch the Thespians made us laugh and the choir sang three beautiful songs.

After Eric Bier lead us in a beautiful ritual, and many spoke kind words, the Green Sanctuary Committee presented me with a wild picture of what a “Green Sanctuary” might look like (I’ll hang it in my office in case you haven’t had a chance to see it up close.) And Lynn Grant brought Nick and I our gifts from the congregation — squares designed by the children and families of the church and sewn into a quilt for each of us by Kay Pauling with her usual genius. Nick just couldn’t put his down, holding it, laying it down, folding it, carrying it. We hung it in his room as soon as we got home. What perfect gifts to help us remember the caring and creative people of UUCPA.

Thank you for all your many gifts; whether you put your caring into food, words, fabric, or the time you gave to put together this special afternoon. What a wonderful closure to this wild ride we’ve been on together for these past 7 years.

On my way home from the party, I realized that when I had my turn at the microphone to offer my thanks, I forgot to thank the two who have been most supportive of my time at UUCPA: my son Nick and my husband Eric. During all those night meetings and weekend events, Eric took over parenting so I could be with you. Through the rough times and the joyful times of ministry, Eric was my support and my rock. He also helped me remember that sometimes I needed to just relax and have fun. Thank you Eric. And to Nick who came with me to worship, to meetings, and to potlucks, who is always the last child in childcare, and who helps me practice my Family Chapel stories. Thank you Nick. You both gave so much, so that I could bring to this ministry all that I had to give.

— Darcey