I heard about the Knoxville TN tragedy shortly after I arrived at work Sunday. I was numb as such a terrible act is so hard to comprehend and because the constant chaos that is Sunday morning at the church didn’t let me have time for it to sink in. My personal life is also especially hectic as I prepare for two-weeks away including graduate study work. I try to get a few household things accomplished between my husbands trips here and there (France, Germany, San Jose, North Carolina). So I was especially grateful for the vigil organized on Second Life today. I wonder how many people might dismiss it as a fun-and-games virtual reality world, not at all understanding the amazing opportunity it creates. I was able to gather with fellow UUs and sympathetic others from around the world for a candlelight vigil at the same time it was happening at the UU church in Tennessee. In the midst of my crazy life, I watched the clock, logged in and headed for the UU church in Second Life.
In the short time I have been attending the worship services it has become a familiar place, a touchstone. I saw familiar faces (albeit virtual ones) in a familiar space. I was welcomed and offered a candle (again virtual) to hold in silent vigil. OK, the silent part is a bit difficult in a world where a constant stream of text chat is the norm but the visual of us gathered together for a common witness was powerful (and you can ignore the text chatter). Some were moved to share song and some to share the heart sutra. And when I was unexpectedly called to rush my husband to the airport, my virtual self continued the vigil in my place until my return. It was somehow comforting to know I would still be represented even though I would be temporarily absent. (Photo: If you look click on the photo and look closely you might notice the small white candles held by each “person.”)
[...] Virtual Silent Vigil [...]