Art has always belonged to people. In hard times, people don’t stop dancing. They dance because they need to. They dance to be present in the moment and release sorrow.
For many of us, dance is our voice. Dance is my voice. This is how I stand with my people. Iran has given me art, spawned from its history, culture, pain and inner strength. And I choose to present it back to its people.
People tell me not to dance. They tell me to stay silent. They tell me not to take sides or be political. But art has never been neutral. It has always belonged to the people. In difficult times, people don’t stop dancing.
I wish to thank all those who attended my online Peace and Solidarity for Iran prayer and sema gatherings this last month. Together we wish the people of Iran find healing and peace in the face of alarming social unrest and challenges.
Join me in Los Angeles this February 22 for a special sacred gathering honoring Sepandārmazgān, the ancient Iranic day of love, devotion, and friendship. Prior the gathering I will discuss sacred traditions, history, and dance revealed in my new book Companions of the Sun followed by a coffee klatch (with chai) among friends. Come also for two author talks at the Oakland Rockridge and Dimond libraries a week apart on the 21st and 28th.
Get ready to celebrate Persian spring with Nowruz performances and celebrations this coming March.
Wishing you joy, health, and safety in the new year.
Farima
Cry Out in Your Weakness
A dragon was pulling a bear into its terrible mouth.
A courageous man went and rescued the bear.
There are such helpers in the world, who rush to save
anyone who cries out. Like Mercy itself,
they run toward the screaming.
And they can’t be bought off.
If you were to ask one of those, “Why did you come
so quickly?” he or she would say, “Because I heard
your helplessness.”
Tear the binding from around the foot
of your soul, and let it race around the track
in front of the crowd. Loosen the knot of greed
so tight on your neck. Accept your new good luck.
Give your weakness
to one who helps.
Be patient.
Respond to every call
that excites your spirit.
Ignore those that make you fearful
and sad, that degrade you
back toward disease and death.
~Rumi