Humanists of Utah has been organizing since February of this year. Over the last six months we've gathered the nuts and bolts that make an organization, things like a charger, a mailbox, a newsletter layout, a speakers program. Now we a re ready to get real.

We are starting a new financial year this month. That is a good time to draw up a balance and ifnd out: what is humanism going to cost you? And what good will it do you?

The Cost Side:

Money

When Humanists of Utah got underway, we asked for initial start-up contributions. Now, the dues for the year beginning in September have been set at:

For those in financial difficulties, we welcome your membership with a voluntary annual contribution.

Why so? Because we are still building and reaching out, and that takes more than effort and good intentions. It takes money.

Isolation, Conflict, and Loss of Tradition

In a society dominated by religion, being a humanist will make you stand out in the crowd. Some people will shun you for it, and you will not be a part of the social life of the church. There are ways of dealing with that, and Humanists of Utah have described their coping strategies in a recent issue of the newsletter.

This cost can also be turned into a benefit: It is good to stand out in a crowd, and to realize that you are a unique human being. Conflict is a part of life, and it is good to fight a good fight.

Time

This is the ultimate cost: you can spend it only once, and you can't make more of it. It would be preposterous to demand time as a requirement for membership of this organization. We hope we can make it so attractive that you will freely want to spend time with and for Humanists of Utah.

Benefits:

The Newsletter

The Utah Humanist appears monthly. It gives you the opportunity to find out what other people are concerned about. It also gives you the opportunity to test out your ideas on a forum of critical readers.

Meetings

There are regular monthly meetings in Salt Lake City, which always feature a thought-provoking speaker on a timely subject. Out-of-towners who'd like to attend are invited to get in touch to arrange an overnight stay in somebody's guest room.

Library

The library is still in its infancy. Book donations are welcome. We'd like to make it available to members all over Utah.

Counselors

Ed Wilson is a veteran Humanist Counselor. Flo Wineriter was recently certified to be one. Humanist Counselors provide a non-religious alternative to traditional rites of passage: namings, marriages, memorials etc. Get in touch if you want to arrange one.

The Balance

Humanists of Utah will cost you time, money and trouble. It will give you contact with like-minded people, stimulation, and input in a growing concern. Whether the two equal out depends on you.

--Mr. Anne Zeilstra, President