Letter from the Admin 5/1/2024
Dear Friends,
As the vibrant celebration of Beltane approaches on May 1st, I've been reflecting on the significance of this day and my personal connection to it. Beltane is a time when we honor fire, fertility, and the spirit of rebirth. It's a moment to embrace the shifting seasons and contemplate our own paths of renewal and growth.
I've undergone almost constant transformation and change. Over the years, my appearance has evolved—from experimenting with various fashion styles and hairstyles (ask me about my emo phase) to body modifications like tattoos and piercings, and even shaving my head and growing a beard.
Professionally, I've explored diverse paths, from working in restaurants and retail to roles in marketing, advertising, and fashion publications. My journey has taken me from bustling New York City to the serene seashores of Gulfport, Mississippi. Beyond my professional endeavors, I've also embraced various roles in my personal life. I've been a supportive brother, a devoted husband, a loyal friend, and a trusted confidant. Additionally, I've stepped into the role of both father and mother for my sister after our mom passed away, as my dad was unable to provide financial or emotional support for her college education.
My initial encounter with Second Unitarian Church coincided with a "dark" chapter of my life marked by the loss of close family members, navigating a divorce, losing friends in said divorce, and receiving minimal to no support from my family. Coincidentally, my first service attendance was during a service titled "Holding the Dark," where guest speaker Mandi Huizenga delved into the profound duality of existence, illuminating the interplay between what is called "good and evil, light and darkness."
These insights resonated deeply, underscoring that within our universe, nothing exists strictly in isolation; rather, each facet relies on its counterpart. Embracing our darkness involves acknowledging and accepting all facets of ourselves and recognizing that the goodness we radiate into the world outweighs any perceived shortcomings. For me, finding 2U and becoming part of the community marked another profound personal transformation during this particular time of "darkness" in my life.
Similarly, our cherished church has been undergoing its own remarkable rebirth. With construction set to commence in May, we embark on a transformative journey to ensure full accessibility for all members of our congregation. This endeavor signifies not merely physical renovation but a deeper commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
Yet, our renewal extends beyond mere physical changes. We've undergone a comprehensive rebranding—from our church signage to our online presence—injecting our image with fresh vitality and energy that represents who we are as a faith and community. Our recent spring cleaning and decluttering endeavors reflect our dedication to fashioning a space that feels inviting, safe, and inspiring to all who enter.
What truly distinguishes us, however, is the steadfast spirit of our congregation. Time and again, you've exhibited remarkable openness to change, embracing novel ideas and ventures with enthusiasm and grace. It is this collective spirit of acceptance and resilience that propels our ongoing journey of growth and transformation.
As we stand on the cusp of summer, let us carry forth the flame of renewal ignited by Beltane. Together, let us nurture the seeds of change, cultivating a community where all are celebrated, embraced, and empowered to thrive.
Thank you for being an integral part of this journey of rebirth and growth.
Happy Beltane,
—Brandon Nicks, Director of Administration
