The Journey Begins...
Greensboro, NC. -- Here in my home office is where my blog begins. I wonder at the contrast of today to tomorrow. Right now my dogs are cuddled close, the portable heater is on. I sip tea from a green travel mug, legs elevated on my favorite stool. That one made of pewter and leopard faux from San Francisco.
You could say I'm in my comfort zone.
A travel journal I used for a trip along the Eastern seaboard had this quote from Anne Morrow Lindberg: "Is there anything as horrible as starting on a trip? Once you're off, that's all right, but the last moments are earthquake and convulsion, and the feeling that you are a snail being pulled off your rock."
I am that snail. My home is my rock. I need a profound reason to leave it for any length of time.
Traveling to the Holy Land is a spiritual quest for millions but I never expected that I would go. I saw myself in Turkey or Morocco but not Israel. It was as though Israel was beyond my imagination to reach.
That is until I received an invitation and an itinerary from Yuval Ron.
Yuval Ron playing Oud.
Yuval Ron is leader of the Yuval Ron Ensemble. While living in Los Angeles, California -- my hometown -- I attended several concerts by the Yuval Ron Ensemble. They were pure poetry. After my first concert experience, I interviewed Yuval. Click here to download the article that appeared in Folkworks Magazine: Download file
The Ensemble's concerts blend Jewish, Sufi and Christian Armenian music into an epic experience of sound, story and dance. Yuval is Israeli and the Ensemble represents the same interfaith mix as the music they play. Their mission: to open a porthole for understanding of - and between - Middle Eastern cultures and to create a sacred space where audiences can tune into their hearts and transcend what divides them.
The Yuval Ron Ensemble
The Yuval Ron Ensemble has performed all over the United States and in Europe and were the first American-based Middle Eastern Ensemble to perform at an International Peace Festival in South Korea.
This month they play for peace in the Middle East.
But have I answered the question that is most likely percolating at the top of many minds - what inspires me? Why am I going?
There is something in the ancient music that moves me literally and figuratively. My body connects with its melodies and rhythms. My spirit immediately responds to prayers in Hebrew and Arabic. They are foreign, yet familiar; beyond understanding, yet completely clear.
Blend that with the soul and skill in which the Yuval Ron Ensemble plays and shares these traditions. It becomes bigger than the Ensemble, bigger than the audience. It is what the Southeast Asian Indian culture calls "yoga." To yolk, to come together, to integrate, unify.
To witness the power of music in the midst of a country in conflict is exactly where I want to be. A country whose art is inspiring, whose natural beauty is breathtaking and where people - in spite of what you hear - are trying to mend the rifts, heal the pain and move into a peaceful future. This is what we should be hearing about. There is hope. There is great good that people across faiths and cultures are doing together. This is where life is richly lived - right from the gut.
Yes - somebody needs to capture that! I am both humbled and awed that it is me. But I am also committed. I've committed my personal time and resources. I've imposed upon friends and family for help while I'm gone. But most importantly I've committed my heart. I ask that you commit yours too, as we journey together.
Beyond the mission there is just the experience. Just me sharing with you what I encounter. The most profound moments could be at the top of Masada, or a conversation in a market. It could be sitting in on the non-violence workshops for teens or sharing falafel with a new friend.
I am excited! I am anxious! As happens when stepping out of one's comfort zone into the unknown. I am glad you'll be with me. I look forward to traveling this road with you.
Peace. Shalom. Salaam.
Faun
Comments (8)
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Faun,
How exciting!
This will be something you will remember and treasure for the rest of your life.
Best wishes on your journey!!!
Posted on November 13, 2007 9:41 AM
I look forward to journeying with you through cyber space!
Posted on November 13, 2007 1:17 PM
Just curious ... Does anyone know if the Yuval Ron Ensemble have any recordings I could hear? I tend to be very drawn to the kind of music Ms. Finley describes here, and would love to hear what this group sounds like.
Posted on November 13, 2007 2:34 PM
Sam: The Yuval Ron Ensemble has several wonderful recordings. They are all excellent. One of my favorites is "Under the Olive Tree." More information is available at:
http://yuvalronmusic.com
Click on "The Yuval Ron Ensemble."
You can preview some music on this site and purchase CDs.
Enjoy!
Faun
Posted on November 13, 2007 2:52 PM
Haala & Patika: Thank you for your kind words and well wishes!
Posted on November 13, 2007 2:54 PM
You better work your show, girl!!! We love you and miss you. Can't wait to tell the kids at Caldcleugh where you are and what you're doing. We'll be in touch!
Posted on November 14, 2007 12:44 PM
Good luck and enjoy yourself. A journey that involves your mind body and soul are the best kind of journey.
We'll miss you, but i know the Alicia Squad will take good care of us :)
Posted on November 14, 2007 1:03 PM
Didn't get a chance to say goodbye before you left. I know you will have an amazing time, and I can't wait to read all about it.
Posted on November 16, 2007 1:02 PM