Some people just seem to rub us raw, maybe for an obvious reason or no discernible cause. What’s the best way to handle those to whom we have instinctive resistance? Do we grit our teeth and try to survive or is engagement advisable? Our second UU principle of justice, equity, and compassion could help us depersonalize, understand, and set these interactions in a larger context. Difficult folks, sometimes known as sandpaper people, might even be revealed as meaningful spiritual teachers in disguise.

Guest Preacher Bio: The Rev. Leah Ongiri grew up in First Church, was ordained here, and is always honored to be invited into this pulpit. With her family (spouse, four kids, tuxedo cat, and bearded dragon), she recently moved back to Portland. Leah has been a child, lay leader, staff member, or minister at congregations in Oregon, Washington, California, New Jersey, Florida, Wisconsin, and Colorado. Leah is a graduate of Starr King School for the Ministry, and co editor of the Skinner House book Jewish Voices in Unitarian Universalism. 

Topics: Our UU Principles