Guest Speaker, Rev Ellen Johnson-Fay writes: I’ve heard it said that civilizations collapse because they listened to politicians instead of poets. I’ll reflect on the wisdom of a few of my favorite poets in helping us cope with and, in some small way, heal our broken world, including Terry Tempest Williams, who, over a decade ago, inspired by the heartbreak of 9/11, wrote a book with the title I’m choosing for my message. I look forward to being with you.

Ellen is Minister Emerita of All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church in Colorado Springs. She has studied and practiced Mindfulness with Thich Nhat Hanh for 20 years and facilitates workshops in compassionate communication. Ellen is the convener of the Green Cities Local Food Coalition and is committed to supporting urban agriculture and localizing our food system with wholesome, humane and sustainable practices. Ellen and her husband Barry enjoy hiking the trails and open spaces of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region and visits with 6 grown children, their spouses and 9 grandchildren.