I spent the afternoon wandering through the Exhibit Hall, having learned that the best time to go there is before the crowds descend. Of course I stopped at the UUA Bookstore’s booth and bought too many books. I walked past the exhibits for all the advocacy groups, and I have to admit that I wasn’t even tempted to stop.

Part way down one of the aisles, I saw Anne, who lives not far from New Bedford. We said hello. “Lots of people,” I said. “Tough on introverts.” Anne and I are both introverts.

“I’ve stopped talking to anyone except people I know,” said Anne.

“In another two days, I’ll just stop recognizing people,” I said. You extroverts won’t understand this, but at a certain point we introverts just stop processing information like that.

Anne nodded. “You have to, out of self-defense,” she said.

I had just about finished walking through the exhibits when I ran into Jeff. He’s starting seminary in January. We had a long talk about denominational politics. We both agreed that one big problem that we’re facing is that the denomination is advocating entirely different (and, we felt, incompatible) approaches to anti-racism work.

Then it was time for the Webworker’s reception and meeting. Long talk with Lance and Casey and Donald — Casey and Lance play the same online role-playing game together (yes, many of the Webworkers are confirmed geeks) and it was fascinating to hear about that subculture.

And then rush off to the Opening Celebration. On the way there, I ran into Deanne, and then later Bette, two of the finest lay leaders I have ever had the pleasure knowing; both of them work harder in their respective congregations than anyone else I’ve seen, and they do it quietly and without much fuss. It was good to see both of them, if only in passing.

The opening celebration was interesting — less celebratory and more serious than usual. I’m writing a story about it for the UUA Web site [when the story goes up I’ll link to it here]. The highlight of the celebration, as always, was the parade of banners from congregations and affiliated organizations — and sure enough, there was Heather from the train walking with the UU Young Adults banner. I waved, but she didn’t see me.