Activism

I sometimes wonder if I am doing enough here to help others. When I lived in San Francisco I helped building some houses for "Habitat For Humanity" and I helped out at the kitchen of "Glide", (a church in San Francisco with a wonderful Gospel choir) that serves meals to the homeless 3 times a day. Since I moved to San Diego I have not volunteered for anything other than events for the Chorus I sing with. Which brings up something that our Artistic Director said a few weeks ago that made me realize that in our own way we are helping out. Some people are very good at picketing and talking to the media, walking in the streets, knocking on doors and help to make changes. Others are not. And although I realize that there are times when all of us should voice our opinion when what matters is numbers and not necessarily content, maybe I am doing my part by entertaining and teaching tolerance and love of others and helping bridge the gap between the different communities through our music. Activism has several faces and each one is as important as the other. GMCSD participates in some events throughout the year and one of them is the "Tree Of Life" lighting ceremony every December 1st on World AIDS Day.


"The Chorus marked World AIDS Day on December 1 by singing at the annual lighting of the Mama's Kitchen Tree of Life in the Village Hillcrest plaza. The ceremony drew about 300 people and featured distinguished speakers, including Mama's Kitchen Executive Director and GMCSD member Alberto Cortés. Attendees lit candles and observed a moment of silence to remember AIDS victims and to pray for the millions more who are affected by HIV.
Mama's Kitchen delivers free, nutritious meals daily to thousands of San Diegans who are living with advanced HIV, AIDS, and other critical illnesses. For more information, see mamaskitchen.org."

I do wish I had more time to volunteer and help out in a more immediate way, but maybe our small contribution with our music is more appreciated and needed than I realize.