by Robin Mitzcavitch, Director of Religious Exploration

I’ve decided that I’m going to be a person who tries harder to embrace possibility. That’s a choice I have to make. During these times, there are so many things pointing at me saying, “isn’t this awful?” The world’s problems are so big that I feel like no matter how much I yell into the void that it is just that: a void- a cone of silence. Or worse: AI has an opinion.

Let’s take a look at social media. As institutions, (yes, even churches), we need to use it- even when we know that social media is hurting a lot of us. We need to be searchable, we need to be relevant. Then, in steps the illustrious AI conversation! Whoa Nelly!  AI is haunting parents and it’s a nightmare for people employed in specific fields. Folks are getting nervous. I personally know of artists, especially digital artists, that are feeling like they have no recourse against the AI monster. I guess I’m old-fashioned, but I’m choosing to see the possibilities.

It can be an overwhelming world. But, right now, I’ve decided personally, as an artist and an educator, to embrace the good that’s in front of me and hang onto it tightly. I love to spend time with the children at UUCW. They are smart.They are curious. They are artists! They are a positive influence on me and therefore I believe they are also able to be an influence in the world. The more time I can spend mirroring that positivity and curiosity back to them, the more they will grow in it and make it a habit of theirs. I can see the weight that teenagers are carrying. It’s a struggle because they have so much to think about and to navigate. They have the hoops of social media and the maze of AI to maneuver through while trying to plan their own future in an uncertain landscape. I strive to let our teens know that UUCW is a place that they can go to be supported. I feel honored being one of the trusted adults in their lives. I’m thankful to all of our mentors and advisors and congregants who support our youth as well. This is human: not social media, not AI. The human brain and touch is so important.  So old-fashioned. This is the way we save the planet.

There are inspiring activities that go on under our roof at UUCW and out into the world. I’m flooded with encouraging feelings when I see our people taking action, standing up, and coming together as a community. I believe that the grassroots movements, homemade and handmade, community and art can grow possibilities which will outweigh instability. To upset the negative applecart, I think we need to engage in the things that swing the pendulum away from a robotic and faceless future. Let’s notice the call to action. Art is calling in every way. Graphic art, visual art, writing, theater, community events, and music. The unique contributions that we produce from our creative bodies are imperative. They’re the way our world can strengthen. Our creative contributions nurture new possibilities. 

I am challenging myself and perhaps you can join me. I wish to stay consistent in doing the human things that are unique, and beautiful, and positively me. I want to embrace that these actions will create possibilities for me to stay hopeful and engaged with my community.  If we combine our offerings, we can offset the angry energy, helping it blossom into a kind and healing space to live. It may seem old-fashioned to link arms and imagine organic possibilities for positive change. I say, move over AI. Human creativity is coming at you.