Ro Comment

Ro Kelly

What does love mean in these divisive times? Can democracy be inclusive? Is Buddhism a religion or a philosophy? How can pleasure be political? Do Catholics still not eat meat on Fridays...in this economy? Is Truth ultimately just contextual? As a new-comer Unitarian Universalist and an old-hand queer pro-liberation activist, I have a lot of questions, and I like to talk my problems, questions, and ideas out LOUD. Come along with me as I explore topics of spirituality, ethics, social justice, and religion with the skepticism and humbleness of a beginner and the depth and complexity of a hyper-fixated nerd. Tune in for one queer UU Midwesterner’s journey from plain ol’ Ro to in-the-know, with laughs, stories, and joy along the way!

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  1. On Beginning Again

    2025. 01. 13.

    On Beginning Again

    In this episode, Ro explores the theme of starting anew and the transformative power of second chances.  We look beyond resilience, exploring the concept of being anti-fragile—the idea that some systems and individuals grow stronger under pressure, rather than simply bouncing back. This mindset challenges us to rethink our response to setbacks and adversity.  We also introduce Sharon Salzberg's thought-provoking idea that "the healing is in the return," reflecting on the importance of returning to one's true self, one's community, or even one's roots to heal from past wounds. We also delve into the concept of discretion in the law, examining how sometimes the legal system allows for flexibility and rethinking past decisions, offering opportunities for personal and societal healing. We also discuss the deeply insightful book A Psalm for the Wild Built by Becky Chambers, which challenges us to reflect on the balance between progress, nature, and the search for meaning in our lives. How can we begin again in a world that feels broken or stagnant? Chambers' story offers a gentle invitation to slow down, listen, and reimagine what it means to transform. Finally, we explore Unitarian Universalist principles of transformation—how personal growth and societal change are not only possible but essential. Drawing connections between the ideas of healing, returning, and inventorying what we already have, this episode inspires us to rethink our approach to change, growth, and the possibilities that lie in starting again where we are now. Tune in for a rich conversation on resilience, healing, and the power of renewal! Sources: - Discussion of French philosopher Voltaire quote "Everything in nature is resurrection": https://outofcontextramblings.wordpress.com/2015/05/17/reincarnation-or-epiphany-with-voltaire/ - How the earth moves through the universe science from PBS: https://www.pbs.org/video/how-does-the-earth-really-move-through-the-galaxy-qnyvha/ - A Psalm for the Wild Built by Becky Chambers (link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781250236210) - Fewer Rules, Better People: The Case for Discretion by Barry Lam (link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781324051244) - Sharon Salzberg: https://www.sharonsalzberg.com/ - Sharon Salzberg's latest book Real Life: The Journey from Isolation to Openness and Freedom (link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781250835758) Support the show

    37분
  2. On Wickedness

    2024. 12. 14.

    On Wickedness

    In this episode, we explore the intersection of pop culture, spirituality, and social justice from a Unitarian Universalist and anti-authoritarian lens. Join us as we dive into Wicked the movie, examining its themes of power, rebellion, and empathy. We also reflect on the life of Luigi Magione and the timeless story of Esther, unpacking how both challenge traditional hierarchies and offer alternatives to oppressive systems. Along the way, we discuss The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff, Mutual Aid by Dean Spade, and Pleasure Activism by adrienne marie brown, all of which offer insights into community building, self-care, and resisting domination. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on creating a world that values justice, care, and collective liberation. Sources: -- Story of Esther from Jewish perspective link: https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/esther-bible -- Eliot Chapel sermon on Esther's choice link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnq7elXriZg --The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9780140067477) --Mutual Aid by Dean Spade (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781839762123) --Pleasure Activism by adrienne marie brown (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781849353267) --Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9780140441314) Support the show

    29분

  3. 2024. 11. 28.

    On R&R (Repair & Resiprosity)

    In this episode of Ro Comment, we explore themes from Robin Wall Kimmerer's The Serviceberry, the bountiful opportunities of gift economies, and what we can do to help repair "long wrongs" in our communities. We discuss how Unitarian Universalists—and all people of conscience—can respond with courage, compassion, and resilience in 2024. Join us as we navigate political turmoil, moral action, and the ongoing fight for love in uncertain times. References: -- The Serviceberry (2024) by Robin Wall Kimmerer (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781668072240) -- Inciting Joy (2024) by Ross Gay (Link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781643753959) -- Marcel Mauss info here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcel_Mauss -- Native Land world map: https://native-land.ca/ -- Resources to support trans Missourians: PROMO, MTUG, SQSH, St. Louis Anti-Violence Project -- Buy Now Netflix documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/81554996 -- Timothy Syndner's article in New Yorker 11/18/2024 issue  Support the show

    34분

  4. 2024. 11. 12.

    On Resistance

    In this episode of Ro Comment, we explore themes from Timothy Snyder’s On Tyranny and On Freedom, the impact of Trump’s election on democracy, and what true freedom and resistance look like today. Inspired by Rachel Maddow's call for "piracy," we discuss how Unitarian Universalists—and all people of conscience—can respond with courage, compassion, and resilience. Join us as we navigate political turmoil, moral action, and the ongoing fight for love in uncertain times. References: -- On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century by Timothy Synder (2017) (link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9780804190114) -- On Freedom by Timothy Synder (2024) (link: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9780593728727) -- Rachel Maddow, MSNBC "Be a Pirate" message from November 6, 2024 (link: https://www.instagram.com/maddowshow/reel/DCGZ4hbRLu-/) -- "Everything is Waiting for You" poem by David Whyte (2012) (link to poem: https://onbeing.org/poetry/everything-is-waiting-for-you/) (link to collection River Flow: https://www.left-bank.com/book/9781932887273) Support the show

    19분
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소개

What does love mean in these divisive times? Can democracy be inclusive? Is Buddhism a religion or a philosophy? How can pleasure be political? Do Catholics still not eat meat on Fridays...in this economy? Is Truth ultimately just contextual? As a new-comer Unitarian Universalist and an old-hand queer pro-liberation activist, I have a lot of questions, and I like to talk my problems, questions, and ideas out LOUD. Come along with me as I explore topics of spirituality, ethics, social justice, and religion with the skepticism and humbleness of a beginner and the depth and complexity of a hyper-fixated nerd. Tune in for one queer UU Midwesterner’s journey from plain ol’ Ro to in-the-know, with laughs, stories, and joy along the way!

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    Ro Kelly
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