Our Monthly Spiritual Themes guide our Chalice Circles, which are small, intentional groups of members and friends that gather for spiritual enrichment through personal sharing. For more information on Chalice Circles, please email Linda Benson at chalicecircles@uuprinceton.org. Our Chalice Circle thoughts and questions around the theme of Power this month are:

“Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent then the one derived from fear of punishment.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Think of a time in your life when you found that you were led or controlled by someone who instilled fear. Now think of a time when you found you were led or controlled by someone who instilled love. What are any feelings from this time in your life?

 

“Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.” – Frederick Douglass

How does demand add a check to power? When have you put forth a demand and forced someone in power to concede?

 

“The power to question is the basis of all human progress.” – Indira Gandhi

Is there a time when you questioned something that had profound impact? Alternatively, is there a time when you stayed silent but could have made a difference?

 

“Silence is the ultimate weapon of power.” – Charles de Gaulle

Have you found power in staying silent?