Want to Change the World? Be a Beetle

Last week we had a different kind of beetle on our minds — the John Lennon and George Harrison kind.

This week, Rev. Dr. Larry King brought us a whole new species to think about (and you really have to watch and listen to this one!).

Building on our March "What If" theme with his talk "Wanna Change the World? Do It!" — Rev. Larry took us to the Amazon at dusk, in a kayak, under a dense canopy, watching the light fade.

And then... one beetle lights up.

Then another.

Then a handful more.

And then the entire jungle pulses in unison, synchronized and lighting the way.

And it isn't always the same beetle that goes first, or second, or next. Any one beetle can take the lead.

His question: What's it like to be the first beetle, that first light to shine? 

Rev. Pam had just reminded us, during our oneness candle ritual, that we are all one — one presence, one power, one love expressing through all of us. That's central to our teaching. And when the world feels especially challenging, as she noted, that awareness is exactly what we can draw on to be that first or second beetle, when it's needed most.

Being that first or second light doesn't take special talent or credentials. The first beetle wasn't particularly different from any of the others.

What it takes is a compelling desire for something to be better, a willingness to be seen, and the ability to be OK with someone thinking you're foolish because what you want for the world matters more than the discomfort of standing out.

The second beetle matters just as much. It doesn't have to be their idea.

It just has to say me too, and in doing so, makes it safe for the early adopters to follow.

Those early adopters are your apostles, your inner circle, the people who help an idea gain enough mass to ignite something.

Then comes the fourth blink, and everyone lights up.

Be the Light, Change the World

There's real risk in being first or second. But Rev. Larry reminded us, drawing on Science of Mind founder Ernest Holmes, that the greatest good a mind can conceive should be internalized and lived. We're meant to venture forth into a life of action, and find joy in the becoming.

Don't just follow along because it's the soup of the day. Stand for something. Actively pursue something. As Rev. Gary put it at the close: feel it, be it, express it. Your passion is yours, specific, individualized, and needed.

So... which beetle are you?

Rev. Larry's suggested some homework: What would it take for you to be a first, second, or early adopter? When have you been one? What's the next step in your own evolution?

Annual Meeting Recap (March 22, 2026)

We held our annual meeting — a meeting of record required in our bylaws — and our Core Council, practitioners, and others in key roles shared a thorough picture of where we've been, where we're headed, and what we're thinking about.

Over the last year, we upgraded systems, technology, equipment, processes, operations, finances, engagement, marketing, outreach, and so much more. We have great people doing amazing things.

A year ago, we weren't sure what the future held; we just knew we were committed to this "divine idea in the mind of God" that is CSL Ballard. Still not knowing what we didn't know, we learned over the year as a volunteer-led organization that this community shows up for itself, and, we have many in our extended community who care about us and want to see us thrive.

While there's more to do and more to learn, we can build upon what we've created this last year, standing on the shoulders of our founders. We are, and are surrounded by, a community that's generous, caring, and committed, and for that, I remain grateful.

If you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, by all means, share them with us, either in person or by email, corecouncil@cslballard.org - or whatever other way works for you. We're available.

With gratitude,

Laura