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Rev. Vicky's Message August 17, 2023
I’m writing this message as I sit in the parking lot of the Monterey County Court in Monterey, after negotiating car-week traffic, to report for jury duty. I am serving on a civil case jury about a contract dispute – definitely not the stuff of Perry Mason or Law and Order. Needless to say, this is a week for learning patience and for surrendering to what is.
I’m finding that surrendering to traffic flow is good practice for surrendering to jury duty. We are at the beck and call of the court’s schedule, which can be changed at a moment’s notice (e.g., a request for a side-bar, an issue with a witness, or a juror getting sick). Getting upset about any of these things is a waste of time (I keep reminding myself)…so I continue to choose to breathe, read for enjoyment if the break is long enough, and give thanks for an unexpected day off, even when it comes after I’ve endured car week traffic.
I must admit, serving on a jury is somewhat timely given my Sunday lesson topic. And while the process can feel tedious, I feel grateful for, and I am appreciating how our nation’s “Rule of Law” focus supports the creation of a civilized society where thorny issues are adjudicated by a judge and jury of peers – rather than through revenge, intimidation and/or violence.
That said, I am looking forward to this experience coming to a close, even as I mine it for insights that might inform my upcoming Sunday lesson.
But now, my lunch break is almost over, so I will close this brief message with love and blessings to you all. And I hope to see you all on Sunday!
Namasté,
Rev. Vicky
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