“Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark.”
—Rabindranath Tagore
Every Sunday as I enter the sanctuary, I welcome another opportunity to greet congregants with an eclectic tapestry of sound: a blend of piano melodies, choir harmonies, and the strumming of instruments. I greet the sexton with a cheerful “Good morning.” I wave at the staff who have meticulously planned our services. The choir members arrive, ready to lift their voices and spirits in song. I take my place, prepared to lead congregants in worship. I hope they’ll join in—not just in song, but also in spirit, receiving the message interwoven through word, music, and movement.
It’s not always easy. I often carry the weariness of endless days and late nights. Sometimes, I find myself moved during worship. A tear wells, my heart fills with heaviness.... These are the difficult moments: when I have to remind myself that I’m here to serve. My moment to reflect will come later; for now, I must stay on task.
My gaze wanders across people’s expressions and then to the art that graces the sanctuary walls: four bronze birds spiral upward, like whispers of hope. Their wings spread wide, urging me to rise above the weight of daily life, to soar into a space untouched by earthly worries—a realm of lightness, joy, and fresh air. It’s a place where I can breathe deeply; where my soul is freed to sing, dance, and thrive.
Bird sculptures
The bird sculptures in the sanctuary of First UU Church of Houston, TX.
Art heals. I’ve experienced firsthand the restorative power of music, poetry, prose, quilting, sewing, and other forms of creative expression. They’re essential for my well-being. Creative expression feeds my soul. Just like worship itself can inspire, creativity can offer a pathway toward healing. We heal through absorbing the creative acts of others as well as engaging in our own creativity.
When the world presses too hard; when the weight of despair feels too heavy and the light of hope seems dim, I remind myself to close my eyes and be the bird in flight. Soar toward your dreams. Aim for your highest self. Let the creativity within you flow—sing, dance, sculpt. Let my wings unfurl, guiding me toward freedom, peace, and joy.
Prayer
As a new day dawns, may the light of goodness within shine, vanquishing the consuming weight of struggle, despair, and distraction. Like the bird that longs to feel the light breaking through the darkness, may all who journey a shaded road be enlightened.