09-24-2017
11:14 am - 12:15 pm
Family Ministry Office


Unconditional Love, a Gift from our Universalist Heritage

In this session, a story about Hosea Ballou (1771-1852), one of the most influential preachers of Universalism, introduces participants to the first Unitarian Universalist Principle, the inherent worth and dignity of every person. The story, “Muddy Children,” describes a young Ballou whose father loves him unconditionally despite his tendency to get muddy. Discussion and activities amplify the story’s teaching, reassuring participants that they, like Hosea Ballou, are loved and worthy even when they are literally muddy or have made a mistake. The signpost “Respect Everyone” is added to the Faithful Journeys Path.

 

Take Home

Make it a daily ritual to express your unconditional love to your child. You might say, “I love you always and forever, no matter what.” Be sure to say this even (or especially) when you have been angry at your child. You can say, “I am still angry at you, but that doesn’t change the fact that I love you always and forever, no matter what.”

 

Check it out: Session 2