From Monte High, UUCGV Member

Have you noticed the Buddha in the back of the sanctuary, emanating lovingkindness? The little Buddha statue was gifted to our congregation by Rev. Maureen White (Mo). She was our interim minister, around the time of 2006 to 2008, when we were renting a building near 10th and Grand. That property is now an apartment complex.
 
What is an interim minister, you ask? An interim minister is hired to help a congregation heal, and begin to envision who they are and what they want to be. At the time, we thought we needed to figure some things out before we hired a permanent minister.
 
When Mo left, we threw her a big farewell picnic-party out at Corn Lake State Park, along the Colorado River. It was also a celebration of our congregation, and even included a short raft trip from Palisade to Corn Lake. I remember it well because I volunteered to lead the planning team for the party. Elizabeth (my wife and driver) was one of the congregants who arrived in the rafts, so I rode the bus to this southernmost stop in Clifton, and then cruised my electric wheelchair/scooter the remaining mile or so. It was a joyous day.
 
When the UUCGV decided to switch locations, and share the building with the Congregational Church in order to save rent, many of our goods had to go into storage, including the Buddha statue. Elizabeth and I were allowed to be the caretakers. The Buddha resided in our guest bedroom/office/meditation room for a few years.
 
Although I practice some Buddhist principles, I am not a Buddhist, and I became very attached. When I meditated or chanted, the Buddha shared my space. One aspect I love about the little Buddha statue is its androgynous appearance. I see a feminine face.
 
When the renovation of our current building was completed, it was time for the little Buddha statue to take its place in the sanctuary where love resides. For me, it was an exercise in letting go; yet, I am now blessed to experience her/his presence alongside our congregation that I so love.
 
So, if you see me guide my power wheelchair to the back corner of the sanctuary and give a namaste bow, this is why.