Posted by Andrew Tatler-Burgess
May 8 -
### Interfaith ##weddings ##custom weddings ##commitment ceremonies ##handfasting officiant ##Non denominational ##LGBT
Fallen Oak Ministry
I can best describe myself as a Humanist with existentialist leanings. It is my belief that we should accept others' beliefs as their truths. We all have our own truths and really should try not to negate the truths of others; they are as equally valid as our own. We all experience the world subjectively and based on many factors including, but not limited, to how we were taught to see the world. Each culture shares their own beliefs, customs, symbols, norms, and values, because these cultural values might not be shared by ourselves does not make them any less valid. We should try and find common ground so we can listen openly and try to understand another's personal truths accepting their truths as that, their truth. We all need to feel valued, wanted, needed, no matter where we come from, no matter what our beliefs are. This is a fundamental need, as are the needs noted by Maslow in his Hierarchy of Needs. These are shared by all humanity, a common ground, a place to start when trying to understand the truths of others; when trying to meet others with differing cultural values.
I openly admit that I will accept teachings from any who can enrich my personal truth and path in this life. The Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son are two parables I take close to my heart. The fundamental message of embracing charity, generosity, forgiveness, and humility are excellent teachings which, if embraced, can help in understanding and accepting differences. The Buddha taught, there is no way to happiness; happiness is the way. Many try to find themselves, find happiness somewhere other than within causing personal discordance.
The Fallen Oak Ministry was founded to help all, no matter what background, no matter what personal truths they embrace, to find peace with who they are, or to help in navigating difficult situations in a non-judgmental way. I chose the name after an oak tree was blown over during hurricane Helena. I cleaned up much of the tree and thought it wouldn't survive because much of its root system was torn up and exposed. However, this spring a new flush appeared, shoots sprang from the fallen tree and it is occupied by many birds and other critters. It represents resilience and tenacity, two very important qualities needed when looking to repair what is perceived to be broken.
