Hello Everybody,
It is difficult to know what to say in times of such pain for so many, but as one of my ministerial school instructors, Rev. Martha Giudici, used to say, “We must press on in the good!” I feel sincere in my hope for the future, but we cannot close our eyes to the reality of our present or our past. The murder of Renee Good and the other atrocities perpetrated by our government in Minneapolis (I have many family members in Minneapolis) and elsewhere leave us heartbroken. These situations alone are devastating to witness, but we are also grappling with the news of families being torn apart as the global order is crumbling. It is too much for many to handle.
So when is too much too much? I must admit that I am a current news junkie. I read lots of online articles and watch an abundance of online videos, many that I share on social media. I want to know what’s going on in the world because as a human being and member of the clergy I feel that it’s important for me to be well informed and respond in ways that I believe will make a constructive difference in our world.
And there are times that I feel the draw to stay inside and hide from the world because I feel overloaded and ineffectual. The answer is more than I think I can and possibly more than I can know, but I keep hearing Martha’s words in my head, “Press on in the good!”
Finding some way to show up for ourselves and others is a first step in breaking out of the spell of inaction. It ould be joining a protest, checking in on a friend, or attending a prayer circle. A next step may be joining a mutual aid network near you, contacting your elected officials, or attending a neighborhood meeting. If we are struggling to survive in this moment, we must first put on our oxygen masks and ask for help if we need it.
I belong to two interfaith organizations here in Springfield, United Open & Affirming Faith Communities, and cthe Greater Springfield Interfaith Alliance. These organizations help me feel plugged into our community in positive and constructive ways. We have held meetings and workshops that have benefited our community with an awareness of our common humanity.
I also participate in monthly online prayer meetings organized by Unity clergy that are holding the high watch for our world. And right here at Unity of Springfield we have weekly Mindful Mondays Peace Circle at 3 p.m., facilitated by Jen Miller, that is available to everyone who wants to feel connected with others. We can make a positive difference in the world, and together, we will all press on in the good!
Abundant blessings,
Alden Studebaker
Written on January 22, 2026
Inspired by my daughter, Jennifer Studebaker
