Governor Walz famously thanked Vice President Kamala Harris for “bringing back the joy” to the recent Presidential campaign. Some of us are less than overjoyed at the outcome of the election – even as we remain resolute in our defense of universal human rights (including for immigrants), social and economic justice, and democracy.

Joy and happiness as well are of paramount importance even in the most difficult of times – I would suggest, especially in difficult times. A loving look at the pursuit and the gift of happiness.

Rev. Ben Bortin served as minister of First UU Congregation of Duluth, Minnesota for eight years (where he first met today’s Worship Associate Maureen Shaiman), and the UU Church of Staten Island for 21 years. A graduate of the University of California and Starr King School of Religious Leadership, he also served 12 years as Membership Coordinator at the UU Congregation at Shelter Rock. He taught “Religions of the World” at St. Johns University, and for two terms, served as President of the UU United Nations Office. Currently, he serves as minister for the North Fork UU Fellowship in Jamesport, NY. He resides both in Riverhead and in Port Washington with his wife, Andrea Starr.

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