Unity activity uses cardboard squares to transform problems into solutions

Who would have thought that a piece of cardboard with a word or phrase written on it could mean so much? Turns out, at Unity Spiritual Center of Westlake, there is a great deal of meaning, insight, enlightenment and emotion poured into this cardboard experience, for both the observer and the participant. 

With strong encouragement from Rev. Joanne Rowden, usually 40 people participate in "Cardboard Testimonies," and this, the third year, could be more dynamic  than ever. The format is simple. On one side of the cardboard is written a problem the person is experiencing, on the other side is written the solution. Problem – solution, easy ... well, maybe not that easy.

Side one of the cardboard is the problem that is undergoing transformation, and side two is the resolution with "possibility" thinking. There is a lot of hard work to be done, not just getting from problem to solution, but starting with what may be the hardest part of all, recognizing that there is a problem. The work to be done is extensive mental, spiritual, emotional and maybe sometimes even physical. Condensing the problem/solution down to its simplest form eliminates the drama, the frills, the details, and brings clarity and focus to the transformation that is occurring, and becoming a reality. 

Per Rev. Joanne, this is a service where the participants need not worry about what to say, they don't have to give a speech or explain what happened to them as a child. The cardboard does all of the talking for them. Sometimes it is laser sharp, with one word written on the front, and one word written on the back. These are not just random, "fluff" words, like "unhappy" then flip side "happy," but powerful words that embrace the full, true meaning of the word transformation.

The person's faith, and belief in transformation is what makes these words so powerful. As Rev. Joanne explains it, each cardboard testimony supports a focus on the transformation into something positive. The “problem” on one side is always overcome by the “possibility” on the other. The problem is not viewed as static or unchanging energy, but viewed in the light of its real possibility. The practical nature of Unity teachings include Principle 5: "It's not enough to know the Truth, we must be the Truth we know."  

Join us for Cardboard Testimonies on during the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services on Sunday, Nov. 26. Unity Spiritual Center is located at 23855 Detroit Road.

Sharon Fedor

 I enjoy writing about USC's events. Everyone is welcome at Sunday services, or at our numerous classes, and worshops!

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Volume 9, Issue 22, Posted 9:55 AM, 11.21.2017