James Hansen - Climate Change:
The Latest Science, 10/24/07

The Progressive Forum was held at The Wortham Center, home to the opera and ballet. The speaker for this event was James Hansen, one of the leading scientists on global warming who works hand in hand with the former vice president of the United States, Al Gore. The mayor of Houston, Bill White, gave the opening speech, and I was able to meet with them both.

It is a great honor to be invited to sing for this forum, and this was my second event. I chose a Spanish song that calls us to take care of the earth. I also sang the Neohumanist Prabhat Samgiita, Sumukher Pane and kiirtan. The songs were well received, and the organizer commented on the “soulfulness” of the selection. Over 1,200 people attended.

Yoga for Peace Conference, 2007, 10/20/07

The Yoga for Peace Conference was held in the pristine Houston Garden Center Auditorium. Around 400 people attended throughout the day. There were two very good speakers giving talks on ahimsa – non-harming to all living beings; and astaunga yoga – the eight branches of yoga. I sang related Prabhat Samgiitas, bhajans and kiirtans in between speakers, and spoke about the relationship between bhakti and seva. Several people sang along with the bhajans and kiirtans; and purchased CDs.

I shared a table with Janis Blue of “Go Vegan Texas” (KPFT Pacifica Radio), and talked with her about our many projects. She is interested in learning meditation, and doing radio interviews. We had a warm time together, as she is also very passionate about ahimsa.

Toward the end of the day, there were several demonstrations of yoga asanas. Sister Daivi gave a very good demonstration on yoga for children, including imagery and chants in English and Sanskrit. The Hare Krsna Youth performed the grand finale with much sweetness and devotion. Many good contacts were made for future endeavors.

Texas Bioneers Conference, 10/19/07

I performed in the beautiful gardens of the Emerson Unitarian Community Center at the Texas Bioneers Conference in Houston. Around 300 people attended. Before my set, I befriended a group of autistic teenagers from a private school who were curious about the sound equipment. I spent time talking with them, and giving them much affection. As I began to sing, they stood in front of me mesmerized. I felt the positive vibrations of the kiirtans and Prabhat Samgiita affecting them deeply. At the break, a few children put dollar bills in my jar. I was very touched by their gesture. Their sweetness and innocence enhanced the beauty of the colorful garden.

As I sang, I heard in the distance the sweet sound of a clarinet, playing a Middle Eastern tune. I sought out the musician, and invited him to play with me. He blended in most beautifully with the Prabhat Samgiita. I attended his workshop in Middle Eastern drumming, and could see the relation between Indian music. I explained to him the history of music; how it was organized by Lord Shiva and how originally music was created for spiritual development.

Many people commented on the good vibrations created by the music. I was invited to perform for the evening program, but declined due to previous commitments.