Reflections

At Fifth Element, we believe that repair is not optional. It is the work of living in relationship—with ourselves, with one another, and with the land. Our framework insists that justice is not abstract, but embodied in the choices we make, the structures we build, and the voices we amplify. The Wabanaki Nations—the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Mi’kmaq, and Maliseet—have carried their sovereignty for centuries. It is inherent, predating the State of Maine, and recognized by the

This Thanksgiving, I had the privilege of addressing our community at UU Belfast with words of gratitude. What impacted me the most wasn't the speech itself, but the way it was received—the softening of faces, the quieting of conversations, and the comments people made about my message afterward. The sanctuary was filled with warmth. Rose, our baker and chef, brought joy and rhythm to the cooking, dancing as she worked, while volunteers rolled up their sleeves and joined in.