Just returned from the Pacific Southwest Region Conference held in Pasadena. Sometimes I'm really uncomfortable at these conferences, and I'm not sure why.

Perhaps it's because there are so many people there intentionally or unintentionally being what they think they are expected to be--dressing the part, talking the talk, earnestly being congregants of a liberal religion.

Maybe the most awkward part is that I look like I belong.

There are a few, however, in whom the spirit shines through. Their joy and their passion transform the whole experience. This morning three ministers spoke about UU past, UU present and UU future, respectively. Mercifully brief, each one, and memorable.

Their homilies were filled with humor, insight and love. I was moved, touched and inspired, in truth all unexpectedly. I had all but determined I would skip the service, but my companion convinced me to join her.

I am still uncomfortable with the self-consciously righteous and holy, so carefully saying their politically correct opinions. In the breakout groups I was the odd one out, speaking my mind and not being terribly worshipful.

But that's the story of my life, which is why I seldom speak my mind in public. What I get in answer is a glassy-eyed stare; instant and total rejection; or a response consisting of the "right answer", i.e., the accepted truth.

It's 7 p.m. I guess I've missed the Big Event.