It is only by following your deepest instinct that you can lead a rich life, and if you let your fear of consequence prevent you from following your deepest instinct, then your life will be safe, expedient and thin. — Katharine Butler Hathaway, 20th-century U.S. writer

With family or friends, reflect on how your investments—of money, time, energy, and love—are made in hope of future return. What are you investing, and what future do you see made possible by your investment?

If you have financial investments in the stock market, directly or through retirement accounts or mutual funds, take a look at those investments. Select one holding of a large size relative to your whole portfolio. Research the profile and performance of the company. Identify those elements that are consistent with your religious values and aspirations and those that are not. Use your imagination to identify constructive opportunities and directions for the company. List what you consider the positives and negatives for the company’s profile and performance, taking into account the “double bottom line”—financial performance and positive social effects. What opportunities do you see for shareholder advocacy? Community engagement? Do the financial prospects and social value seem to align or are they in opposition?

Engage in a shareholder advocacy action, using suggestions from the SRI page on uua.org. Write a letter to the company’s management, attend the annual meeting, attempt to advance a shareholder resolution, or take another appropriate action.