Gathering: Now, as we gather, let’s pause to center ourselves, give thanks for the blessings that we have in our lives, and to be both present and mindful as we enter a time of thought and discussion.
Focus: A symbol … is a visual image or sign representing an idea — a deeper indicator of universal truth. (Dorling Kindersley) They differ from signs in that a sign conveys a single message while a symbol involves a complexity of understanding. The red octagon on the street corner has only one message, “STOP!” while the Golden Arches of McDonald’s could evoke an entire conversation about the thoughts surrounding that fast food giant.
Tonight we take a look at symbols, those iconic figures and the ideas and emotions that they evoke.
Sentences on the Subject: When I was a young person I went to the university and I learned a rational language, to think with the left side of the brain. But in the right side of the brain you have intuition and imagination. Words are not the truth; they indicate the way to go, but you need to go alone, in silence. Symbols have a language that kills the words.–Alejandro Jodorowsky
“That flag is a symbol we attach our emotions to, but it isn’t the emotion itself and it isn’t the thing we really care about. Sometimes we don’t even realize what we really care about, because we get so distracted by the symbols.”― Tom Wolfe, The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
The guns and the bombs, the rockets and the warships, are all symbols of human failure. – Lyndon B. Johnson
I understand the power of symbols, and if I had anything on my house that seriously offended someone, I’d take it down if for no other reason than common courtesy.–Charles Barkley
The act of giving is simply a behavior, and the gift merely a symbol. It is the energy behind both that will determine their impact on our lives.—Bill Crawford
Below is some “food for thought”, a few probes that might kick start a conversation. Read over them and pick one (or more, or none) to discuss. Remember to hold space for others to share and share only what you feel comfortable sharing.
Probe 1. Covid-19 has all but eliminated the handshake and the hug as the way of greeting another. What is your preferred way to greet someone other than shaking hands? Is there a new symbol of welcome that we should adopt?
Probe 2. ESPN is running a 10 part series on Michael Jordan. MJ started his career in 1983 and remains the iconic symbol excellence in his sport (His Jordan Nike line had three of the top twenty selling basketball sneakers last year). What other iconic people come to your mind? What do they symbolize?
Probe 3. What cultural iconic symbols come to mind? What words or emotions do you associate with them?
Probe 4. The cross or the crucifix? What does the difference suggest about your faith? Do you think the cross is the best symbol for Christianity?What other religious symbols have been meaningful for you?
Commission: Hold on to what is good. Love deeply. Honor others. Stay excited about life and your faith. Be joyful. Be patient. If you pray, have faith. Share with people who are in need. Welcome others into your homes. Be loving to those who hurt you. Be present; be in the moment. Be agreeable, even with those with whom you disagree. Be humble. Be a friend of people who aren’t considered important. Do the right thing. If possible, live in peace with everyone. And remember, no matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey- you are welcome here.
My Thoughts and the Thoughts of Others 