We humanists love to talk and explain (and then sum up, before adding footnotes!) …but brevity can sometimes be better. The Journal of Religious Humanism challenges you to be creatively brief. If you were asked, upon entering an elevator: “Hey, what is Humanism, anyway?” And you had to reply before exiting, what would you say?

In one floor? A dozen words or fewer? Example: “Wonder, imagination, fulfillment, creativity, meaning: available to everyone – religious or not.” Marilyn Westfall

In four floors? No more than 50 words? Example: “Humanism tells me human life is … worthy of respect and care. Environmentalism tells me: to be human is to be part of an interdependent circle of all life. Environmental Humanism compels me to … reduce human practices that threaten the survival of life on earth.” Carol Hepokoski

In twelve floors? 100 words, tops?

Secular Humanism. Religious Humanism. Plain ole’ humanism. Whatever you call it – tell us and our members/subscribers what it means to you. Pick one of the elevator-ride durations, and submit your positive description by April 30, along with your name, phone number, connection to Humanism and/or UUism, other relevant biographical information, and brief details of what inspires your vision.

We’ll publish as many entries as we can, but reserve the right to edit, with your permission. We’re not looking for perfect definitions of Humanism – just your unique take on what makes your humanism work for you. Perfection is rare and takes too long. We would love to include your positive description in our next issue.

We accept diamonds in the rough. Think fast, write just a little slower, revise sparingly, and send it in. Who knows? You could make us proud and we might make you famous (within a limited Freethinking universe).

Submissions and Questions to: Roger Brewin at Rabrewin@aol.com or 773-551-8540.

Roger Brewin, UUHA Journal Editor