Being a part of the class has impressed upon me how difficult (some might call it "hard work") but rewarding developing my own spiritual path is. I've felt elation discovering others who share some of my views and mind-expanding stimulation from those who don't. During my daily life, I now see UU and non-UU concepts jumping out at me from many different sources. I attribute my increased awareness to this class and our Sunday presentations and discussion

I would certainly recommend the class to UU newcomers. Bet some long time UU members and friends would also find the class refreshing, and they certainly would add even more diversity and interest.

Well, I've only been there once since I didn't know it had started, so I'm no expert. I enjoyed getting to know the others in a more quiet, introspective environment. I also liked the fact that others seemed to be speaking candidly about their feelings.

After requesting that the group meet on Wednesday nights because that is my only free week night, I promptly missed the first two meetings because of previous commitments. I can say from personal experience that this group of people practices forgiveness and understanding.

When I finally attended my first meeting, I realized I must have missed some very interesting discussions. We are learning what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist. In order to understand this religious tradition, we are studying the history as well as the philosophy. Our leader, Jessica Noble, is patient and lets us explore ideas freely. It is a pleasure to participate in a discussion with the individuals in this group, because all are nonjudgmental, yet they challenge you to explore the real meaning of your beliefs.

S.W.I.M., the Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute in Miami, is all about having fun in the warm Miami sunshine! S.W.I.M.'s annual intergenerational retreat for UUs and like-minded kids of all ages happens every year from December 26th through January 1st.

S.W.I.M. offers south Florida hospitality, outdoor adven- tures (including tours, hikes, boating, and sailing), work- shops (including spirituality and personal growth), special programs for youth, teens, and young adults, fantastic food, and a new community of friends from across the continent.

For more information, please visit us online at http://www.swimuu.org

S.W.I.M. is a member in good standing of the Council of Unitarian Universalist Camps & Conferences, an affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association.

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Once again, those of us who recognize the futility and immorality of war, protested the Bush Administration's policy in Iraq. We were participating in a worldwide demonstration: A Trail of Mourning and Truth from Iraq to the White House. The purpose was to honor and remember all those killed and wounded in the war in Iraq and to speak out against a policy that says it is protecting Americans from the horrors of the war against terrorism by taking the fight overseas instead.

On October 2nd, we gathered in front of the Unitarian Fellowship Hall in Longview and held up our signs for those in the cars passing by to read. There were lots of horn honkings and hand gestures. We took them all as signs of support, cheered lustily, and gave them a "thumbs up" salute in response.

continued ... see War Protest page 4