THE COURAGE TO BE A CYNIC

Typically we use the word cynicism to mean belief in nothing and criticism of everything. But its original definition was not simply unreflective naysaying and whining, but an opposition and questioning of ordinary cultural values. The ancient Greek cynics were a highly disciplined resistance movement, questioning the rules, laws, power and dominion of those in authority. Everything came under scrutiny, everything was suspect. Herbie Hardt, a very old friend (he’ll be 101 this month) was born a cynic, especially in regards to religion. We will be doing the sermon together. Herbie suggested “Cowards, Charlatans and Nincompoops” as the sermon title but I didn’t have the courage to use it.

Phil Sweet is a long-time friend of UUFDC, and a marvelous and insightful story-teller. He served as minister of Hope Church in Sturgeon Bay and two rural churches in western Minnesota.

Music: Gerri Friedberg
Service Leader: Toby Mason