In the words of Connie Zweig, “Aging is our next frontier - a physical, emotional, moral, cognitive and spiritual frontier. Its mysteries and its terrors need to be faced consciously and mindfully.” This class will introduce processes and tools for doing this work, examining our own lives and supporting each other as we explore the path to elderhood. Facilitated by Stephanie Kimball. Meets on Wednesdays, 2 - 4 p.m., from January 14 to April 8 (no class on March 18).

Exploring Philosophical Daoism: Lessons for Living in Reverence of Nature and Defiance of Hierarchy

A five-part introductory course for nature-lovers, tree-huggers, and authority-questioners. Daoism is an ancient egalitarian Chinese spiritual tradition that has inspired hermits, anarchists, science fiction writers, revolutionaries, primitivists, and environmentalists for thousands of years. We’ll explore the beliefs, modern practical applications, and history of this deep philosophical tradition using a mix of approachable methods, through graphic novels, clips from “accidentally Daoist” modern films and other media, poetry, environmental texts, Daoist-inspired anarchist works, and walking through excerpts of surprisingly relevant ancient Daoist texts. A laid-back and informal mix of in-depth presentations and free discussion facilitated by Zach Ammerman. People of all faith backgrounds and no faith background at all are encouraged to attend and learn more about this non-theistic philosophical tradition.

Meets in-person and via Zoom from 7 to 9 pm on Wednesdays starting February 11. Bring only a love of nature, a questioning spirit, and an openness to learn new things (and maybe a pen and paper, but not required). Course registration includes a copy of the Dao de jing and a binder of course materials. 

Over the course of 13 sessions, the Adult Our Whole Lives Program explores sexuality issues for adults of all ages using values, communication skills and spirituality as starting points. The OWL program helps participants build an understanding of healthy sexual relationships, affirm diversity and accept and affirm their own sexuality throughout their lives. Our Whole Lives presents sexuality as a good, creative force with enormous potential to enrich as well as to generate life. Facilitated by Abby Gitlitz and Matt Stonecipher. Meets on Wednesdays, 7-9pm: Nov. 5, 12, 19; Dec. 3, 10, 17; Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18. Minimum 10 participants.

The primary purpose of the Mud and Lotus Collective is to offer a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from addiction of all kinds. We gather together every week to do meditation, read from Buddhist recovery books, and have a discussion. Currently meeting at the UU Church of Bloomington on Thursdays at 6:30 pm. Open to all. 
facebook.com/groups/mudandlotus

Choir schedule (starting August 8):

Thursday evenings: 7:00-8:30. Childcare available upon request.

Sunday mornings: 8:45 am rehearsal for 9:30 am service, 10:45 am rehearsal for 11:30 am service. Childcare always available.

Choir exercises body, mind, and spirit. Enhances your vocal fluency and keeps your voice young and flexible. Engages deep listening. Improves posture and lung capacity. Calms and focuses the mind (you won't have time for any other worries during rehearsal). Gives you the best seat in the house for the children's moment. And occasionally puts you smack in the middle of a masterpiece!