I've been up in Hazelton BC for the past three weeks, trying to get a start on editing the Lawrence Project. The first problem I ran into: I couldn't upload the HDV footage, which I shot in 24p mode - that's 24 frames-per-second, instead of the regular 30 frames-per-second of regular video. The 24p is meant to give the footage a more film-like look. I made the decision to shoot it this way back in May, once I decided on the HV20 prosumer camera. The down-side is that I can't even upload any of the HD 24p footage to a hard-drive with my old copy of Final Cut Pro 4.5. I've ordered the latest version of Final Cut Studio 2, which hopefully will arrive any day now down in Vancouver. Of course, I still need to learn how to edit using that software, but one step at a time.
I've also started to watch the 37 hours of footage that I've shot. I'm only 7 hours in, and I find it all quite painful to watch! There is some good material mixed in with a lot of sub-optimal footage, with either poor sound or poor light. As I watch, I remember back to how frustrated I was with some of our shoots. I have been keeping a rough log of the footage, although that's a far cry from the transcript that I'd ideally have.
On top of all that, Mum is working on a book proposal for the Lawrence Project, and so she wants me to send her an overview of answers to the questions that I posed in the interviews. She also wants some kind of short proposal or treatment about the film project. I've started to think that I might be able to include some short and simple animations in the project, to help at least bring some of the stories to life.
I was scouring the web for advice on how to proceed. I came across this site about a first time filmmaker's making of the documentary "My Hippies." It all feels a bit overwhelming. I've got a lot more raw footage, and, I'm guessing less drama than he had. I am worried that the movie will come across as too academic, with too many talking heads, and not enough conflict or drama. Anyway, there's nothing to do but try and push the project forward as best I can.
I'd like to get a rough draft done for my Mum's birthday, on February 29th. At times, that seems doable, and at other times, it seems overly ambitious. I also think I would do well to keep the movie short: down to 25 minutes, with perhaps a longer version of the project at 60 minutes.
Mum and I visit South Africa in 2007 and 2012 to learn about the life and times of my great grandfather, Vincent Lawrence (1872-1965). Lawrence worked with Gandhi when the Mahatma was in South Africa, got involved in the struggle against apartheid, and helped found St. Anthony's Church in Durban.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Lawrence Grave repaired
I just got this photo from Harold. As you can see, the Lawrence grave has been repaired. The last time I saw the grave, it was with Harold, and we were both surprised to see the gravestones over on their side. So, it's nice to know that things have been set right. It sounds like Rosemary and Natasha have had a productive visit to South Africa, and I will be interested to learn more.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Lawrence Project Trailer
I'm up in the Haida Gwaii these days, aka, the Queen Charlotte Islands. I'm here with Sharmeen, and I'll be working on the Haidawood project over the new two weeks, which involves making stop-motion animated movies with Haida youth in the Haida language. You can see the proof-of-concept movie here.
Just by chance, the Whistling Bones Aboriginal Arts Festival was in town, and I got a chance to participate in a filmmaking workshop with Mi'kmaq filmmaker Catharine Martin. She encouraged me to work on a teaser for the Lawrence Project movie as part of the workshop.
It was a lot of work, and I didn't have much time, with only 2 1/2 days to shoot and edit the movie. I am reasonably happy with the results, and the film was shown at the closing ceremonies of the Whistling Bones festival here in Old Masset. I didn't have access to the footage I shot in South Africa - that's all down in Pemberton. My plan is to spend two weeks in Pemberton in September to make a start on the project.
As I think about the Lawrence Project, it's clear to me that I'll want to balance the tone between the seriousness of some of the content, including discussions of apartheid, satyagraha, etc., and my own sense of humor. I think balancing the tone will be important in making a watchable short movie.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Lawrence Avenue?
It's been a while since I've blogged on these pages. I've been traveling in British Columbia, visiting my sister Michele and my Dad up in Pemberton, and then making a trip up to Quesnel to reconnect with Sharmeen. Now I'm back in Kitchener-Waterloo visiting with Mum and Dad for a bit before visiting the States for a week, and then back to BC.
While Mum and I were in Durban, the eThekwini Municipal Government was in the process of renaming various street names. For example, Point Road has been renamed Mahatma Gandhi Road, Grey Street has been renamed Dr Yusuf Dadoo, and Victoria Embankment has been changed to Margaret Mncadi Avenue. The Point Road rename has been especially controversial among the Indian community, because the street is frequented by prostitutes and drug users. I don't think the Mahatma would mind - he was always compassionate towards people of all backgrounds and life circumstances, and who knows, perhaps the name change will help inspire people to adopt the principles of non-violence to help solve issues of poverty in the area.
Mum is not one to let an opportunity pass by. When Leslie Peters mentioned that he thought it might be a good idea to rename Gale Street, where Vincent Lawrence and his family lived for years (and where Mum was born), Mum jumped into action. With Dad's help, they have submitted an application to have Gale Street renamed Lawrence Avenue. They have just submitted all the relevant documentation, and it remains to be seen if their bid for the rename will be successful.
While Mum and I were in Durban, the eThekwini Municipal Government was in the process of renaming various street names. For example, Point Road has been renamed Mahatma Gandhi Road, Grey Street has been renamed Dr Yusuf Dadoo, and Victoria Embankment has been changed to Margaret Mncadi Avenue. The Point Road rename has been especially controversial among the Indian community, because the street is frequented by prostitutes and drug users. I don't think the Mahatma would mind - he was always compassionate towards people of all backgrounds and life circumstances, and who knows, perhaps the name change will help inspire people to adopt the principles of non-violence to help solve issues of poverty in the area.
Mum is not one to let an opportunity pass by. When Leslie Peters mentioned that he thought it might be a good idea to rename Gale Street, where Vincent Lawrence and his family lived for years (and where Mum was born), Mum jumped into action. With Dad's help, they have submitted an application to have Gale Street renamed Lawrence Avenue. They have just submitted all the relevant documentation, and it remains to be seen if their bid for the rename will be successful.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Devi's Diary
Devi Rajab was good enough to send me a transcript of her article, entitled "Creating a Peaceful Nation," that appeared in the June 4th issue of the Mercury. I've included the transcript here, for those of you who don't subscribe to the paper:
Devi's Diary Monday Column
I had an opportunity to speak with some foreign visitors to our shores recently. A mother and son team Dr Josephine Naidoo an eminent Canadian social psychologist and her son Dr Kenneth Leslie a clinical neuro-cognitive scientist had come to conduct research in SA. Effortlessly the conversation trailed to SA and the crime and its future. Although SA is a microcosm of the world, it is significant that they felt that it displays the most pernicious form of violent crime, which involves shocking acts of cruelty reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's film "A Clockwork Orange." They cite the example of a white man stripped naked by thugs who then crazy- glued his exercise bike and forced him to sit on it and then sealed his mouth with the same glue and proceeded to rob him. Attacks like these induce fear and revulsion in the population, and lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. But they also tell a lot about the psyche of the perpetrators, which we need to study closely in order to understand why they do what they do. What follows is a series of questions and answers towards a better understanding of how we could fight crime by building a non-violent society.
Our prisons are overflowing. Lesser criminals become hardened, hardened become irredeemable. Recidivism is high. We spend more money on security than food and criminals are emerging like the proverbial Hydra monster, the more you lop of its head the more heads emerge. How should South Africans respond to ubiquitous crime, I asked. Other than employing private security companies, retreating to gated communities, building walls and electrified fences and filling up our jails with inmates, what should we do? “I have been reading Richard Gregg's "The Power of Non-Violence," which has helped me to better understand the principles of Satyagraha says Dr Lesley. The approach maintains that you cannot solve any problem at the level of the problem. A violent response to thugs only serves to reinforce the idea that problems can be solved through violence. In a sense, you are agreeing with the criminals, that might really does make right. The increased security approach is already showing its limitations, and it is clear that it will never solve the security problem in South Africa, or it might do so by returning South Africa to a police state.”
What about the efficacy of the principal of an eye for an eye as a quick and immediate deterrent I asked provocatively. Many South Africans are calling for the death penalty and cite the Arab method of cutting off limbs as a negative reinforcer. There is very little crime in Muslim countries where merchants leave their goods unguarded while they attend to their ritual prayers. While this may be so there is a great deal of collective violence displayed in the acts of the suicide bombers.
“ Violence begets violence and what we want to create is a society that is truly free and non violent. There is a real opportunity to explore alternative approaches to reducing violent crime in South Africa he said. One such approach would involve a Satyagraha campaign aimed at discrediting the use of violence. After all Gandhiji was also a son of Africa and for 21 years he incubated these ideas on this very soil”.
But surely this is a tall order and out of synch with the dominant culture I asked? Non-violence is wonderful as a philosophy but how do we translate this into some concrete proposals?
”Before we can begin to articulate a plan for a campaign against violent crime, it is important to understand the psychology of our opponent. A vital tool in disarming our opponents is empathy. I would argue that the men who stripped that man of his clothes and crazy glued him to his bicycle seat, have, themselves, suffered from feelings of being emasculated and rendered helpless and voiceless. From this perspective, their violent act can be seen as a tragic attempt to seek empathy, in this case, by victimizing someone else. An important part of our strategy is an attempt to help our opponents remember their humanity (by treating them like human beings instead of enemies), and help them recover their sanity.” Change will hinge on helping people to disengage themselves from their identity as gangsters, and help them instead to realize their own capacity for feelings of vulnerability and love. It is important to remember that this identity is only a persona, and not who the person really is.
Progress will depend in part on getting past enemy imagery, and seeing the humanity of our opponent, but what then?
“ The next step involves identifying opportunities for contact with violent criminals, and then creating situations where the power of non-violence can be used to maximum advantage. South Africa has many violent criminals in prison. Instead of judging these people, and reinforcing their identity as the "worst of the worst," which just plays into their egos, and reinforces a culture of violence and retributive justice, we could instead adopt methods pioneered by Kiran Bedi who reformed the infamous Tihar jail in India which many described as a hellhole and converted prisoners into noble citizens through a course in Vipassana, an ancient technique of self-purification, which has experienced a public revival in India after having been all but lost for centuries. Participants spend a rigorous ten days of meditation and prayer, learning to observe themselves. As the course progresses, the participant is brought face to face with himself. This experience has had a positive impact on many of the prisoners who claim that the course rehabilitated them as it forced them to look directly and without excuses into their dark sides.”
How can we confront violent criminals in a non-violent way that communicates self-respect and respect for the attacker, without taking foolish risks? “The answer will require more research, and I think it will involve Non-Violent Communication, and a delicate balance between asserting one's right to personal and economic safety and a willingness to let go of one's personal possessions. This idea could be extended even further: a willingness on the part of wealthy South Africans to embrace voluntary simplicity and live with less, and instead invest in strategies for making sure that everyone's needs get met, including the need for economic and personal security for all. This, along with access to education and opportunity, can help South Africans create a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Devi's Diary Monday Column
I had an opportunity to speak with some foreign visitors to our shores recently. A mother and son team Dr Josephine Naidoo an eminent Canadian social psychologist and her son Dr Kenneth Leslie a clinical neuro-cognitive scientist had come to conduct research in SA. Effortlessly the conversation trailed to SA and the crime and its future. Although SA is a microcosm of the world, it is significant that they felt that it displays the most pernicious form of violent crime, which involves shocking acts of cruelty reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's film "A Clockwork Orange." They cite the example of a white man stripped naked by thugs who then crazy- glued his exercise bike and forced him to sit on it and then sealed his mouth with the same glue and proceeded to rob him. Attacks like these induce fear and revulsion in the population, and lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. But they also tell a lot about the psyche of the perpetrators, which we need to study closely in order to understand why they do what they do. What follows is a series of questions and answers towards a better understanding of how we could fight crime by building a non-violent society.
Our prisons are overflowing. Lesser criminals become hardened, hardened become irredeemable. Recidivism is high. We spend more money on security than food and criminals are emerging like the proverbial Hydra monster, the more you lop of its head the more heads emerge. How should South Africans respond to ubiquitous crime, I asked. Other than employing private security companies, retreating to gated communities, building walls and electrified fences and filling up our jails with inmates, what should we do? “I have been reading Richard Gregg's "The Power of Non-Violence," which has helped me to better understand the principles of Satyagraha says Dr Lesley. The approach maintains that you cannot solve any problem at the level of the problem. A violent response to thugs only serves to reinforce the idea that problems can be solved through violence. In a sense, you are agreeing with the criminals, that might really does make right. The increased security approach is already showing its limitations, and it is clear that it will never solve the security problem in South Africa, or it might do so by returning South Africa to a police state.”
What about the efficacy of the principal of an eye for an eye as a quick and immediate deterrent I asked provocatively. Many South Africans are calling for the death penalty and cite the Arab method of cutting off limbs as a negative reinforcer. There is very little crime in Muslim countries where merchants leave their goods unguarded while they attend to their ritual prayers. While this may be so there is a great deal of collective violence displayed in the acts of the suicide bombers.
“ Violence begets violence and what we want to create is a society that is truly free and non violent. There is a real opportunity to explore alternative approaches to reducing violent crime in South Africa he said. One such approach would involve a Satyagraha campaign aimed at discrediting the use of violence. After all Gandhiji was also a son of Africa and for 21 years he incubated these ideas on this very soil”.
But surely this is a tall order and out of synch with the dominant culture I asked? Non-violence is wonderful as a philosophy but how do we translate this into some concrete proposals?
”Before we can begin to articulate a plan for a campaign against violent crime, it is important to understand the psychology of our opponent. A vital tool in disarming our opponents is empathy. I would argue that the men who stripped that man of his clothes and crazy glued him to his bicycle seat, have, themselves, suffered from feelings of being emasculated and rendered helpless and voiceless. From this perspective, their violent act can be seen as a tragic attempt to seek empathy, in this case, by victimizing someone else. An important part of our strategy is an attempt to help our opponents remember their humanity (by treating them like human beings instead of enemies), and help them recover their sanity.” Change will hinge on helping people to disengage themselves from their identity as gangsters, and help them instead to realize their own capacity for feelings of vulnerability and love. It is important to remember that this identity is only a persona, and not who the person really is.
Progress will depend in part on getting past enemy imagery, and seeing the humanity of our opponent, but what then?
“ The next step involves identifying opportunities for contact with violent criminals, and then creating situations where the power of non-violence can be used to maximum advantage. South Africa has many violent criminals in prison. Instead of judging these people, and reinforcing their identity as the "worst of the worst," which just plays into their egos, and reinforces a culture of violence and retributive justice, we could instead adopt methods pioneered by Kiran Bedi who reformed the infamous Tihar jail in India which many described as a hellhole and converted prisoners into noble citizens through a course in Vipassana, an ancient technique of self-purification, which has experienced a public revival in India after having been all but lost for centuries. Participants spend a rigorous ten days of meditation and prayer, learning to observe themselves. As the course progresses, the participant is brought face to face with himself. This experience has had a positive impact on many of the prisoners who claim that the course rehabilitated them as it forced them to look directly and without excuses into their dark sides.”
How can we confront violent criminals in a non-violent way that communicates self-respect and respect for the attacker, without taking foolish risks? “The answer will require more research, and I think it will involve Non-Violent Communication, and a delicate balance between asserting one's right to personal and economic safety and a willingness to let go of one's personal possessions. This idea could be extended even further: a willingness on the part of wealthy South Africans to embrace voluntary simplicity and live with less, and instead invest in strategies for making sure that everyone's needs get met, including the need for economic and personal security for all. This, along with access to education and opportunity, can help South Africans create a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Letter from Dr. Betty Govinden
Mum and I did an interview with Herbie and Berry Govinden, before we left South Africa. We also had a chance to discuss with them the application of Satyagraha to South Africa's violent crime problem, and Devi Rajab's recent article in the Mercury (you can see a picture of the article here, and I am trying to make a copy of the article accessible online for free). Here is Dr. Govinden's response to the article, which was recently published in the Mercury, for the record:VINCENT LAWRENCE – Role Model for a Great Grandson
I was happy to read Devi Rajab’s account of her dialogue with Dr Kenneth Leslie, who told her of the power of non-violence, as espoused by Gandhi, to deal with the rampant problems of crime [The Mercury, June 4th]. Leslie’s constructive application of Gandhian principles to present-day problems of violence in all forms is worth understanding and following through purposefully both locally and internationally.
Reading the article, I pondered over how Gandhian principles have been handed down from generation to generation. Dr Leslie is the great grandson of Vincent Lawrence, who was Gandhi’s secretary. Lawrence, a well-known community leader at the time, came from Madras in the early 1890’s as a trained teacher, and worked as a clerk in Gandhi’s legal practice in Durban.
He was a part of the Gandhi household for a time and imbibed Gandhi’s values and ideals, as did R K Khan, the well-known advocate and philanthropist. He worked side by side with Gandhi in the Ambulance Corps during the South African War. It is not surprising that Vincent Lawrence spear headed many petitions in the 1900’s against discriminatory laws which affected Indians adversely. Lawrence assumed the leadership of the Natal Indian Congress from time to time and contributed to several social welfare organizations, sporting, cultural and church groups. A devout Catholic, he was staunchly non-sectarian is his dealings, like his mentor. It is worth noting that Leslie’s great grandmother, Mrs Josephine Lawrence served the cause of education and social upliftment, especially that of women and girls.
Even after Gandhi returned to India, Lawrence continued with his political involvement, working with Manilal Gandhi, who himself followed in the footsteps of his father. Lawrence was among Manilal’s key supporters when there were South African solidarity formations in Durban for the Swaraj movement in India.
I would be very interested to know whose copy of Richard Gregg’s “The Power of Non-Violence” Kenneth Leslie is reading. This was one of Manilal Gandhi’s favourite books and was much in use in the early 1950’s when Manilal went on an extended fast in protest against the apartheid government’s policies. It was Vincent Lawrence who readily offered his support to Manilal at the time, as well as, among others, Gadija Christopher.
A great grandfather such as The Honourable Vedanayagum [Vincent] Lawrence - what an admirable legacy for Kenneth Leslie to draw on!
MS D GOVINDEN Phd
Writing for Change
Check out this IDRC sponsored website on effective writing. I continue to be impressed by my copy of "The Power of Non-Violence" by Gregg. His writing is very effective at getting his message across, and I'd like to learn to be similarly effective in developing ideas regarding the application of non-violence to our times, including the use of Non-Violent Communication, and both persuading and teaching people how to strengthen their own non-violent responses to life.
Delegitimizing Violence and Building Peace
I came across this article on Turning the Tide of Violence in South Africa by the Canadian International Development Research Center (IDRC). In part, the article suggests that violence was legitimized as a form of political protest during the apartheid years, even though in many cases, this violence was also economically motivated. How deep does this legitimization go? I was surprised to read Nelson Mandela's comments on Gandhi on the Tolstoy's Farm website. Mandela seems to be at pains to justify the use of violence to combat apartheid. Here is an excerpt:
Gandhi remained committed to nonviolence; I followed the Gandhian strategy for as long as I could, but then there came a point in our struggle when the brute force of the oppressor could no longer be countered through passive resistance alone. We founded Unkhonto we Sizwe and added a military dimension to our struggle. Even then, we chose sabotage because it did not involve the loss of life, and it offered the best hope for future race relations. Militant action became part of the African agenda officially supported by the Organization of African Unity (O.A.U.) following my address to the Pan-African Freedom Movement of East and Central Africa (PAFMECA) in 1962, in which I stated, "Force is the only language the imperialists can hear, and no country became free without some sort of violence."
Gandhi himself never ruled out violence absolutely and unreservedly. He conceded the necessity of arms in certain situations. He said, "Where choice is set between cowardice and violence, I would advise violence... I prefer to use arms in defense of honor rather than remain the vile witness of dishonor ..."
Violence and nonviolence are not mutually exclusive; it is the predominance of the one or the other that labels a struggle.
I disagree with this characterization of Gandhi. I doubt very much that the Mahatma would have endorsed violent opposition to the apartheid Regime. I imagine he would have instead argued for an even more strict application of Satyagraha, which, at its moral core is based on the concept of the application of courage and the acceptance of self-suffering as a tool for awakening the compassion and moral understanding of the oppressor.
It has become a widely accepted truism in South Africa that violence helped end apartheid. I would argue that other factors, such as economic sanctions, sports and scientific boycotts, and the end of the Soviet Union were more important. I believe that the decision to use violence will ultimately be seen as a strategic error, and that the violent wing of the struggle only served to make the regime more repressive, while also contaminating the peace in post-apartheid South Africa.
If the goal of the anti-apartheid struggle was to create racial and economic peace, then the decision to legitimize violence has delayed the realization of that goal, by creating a class of people who are willing to use violence to acquire wealth. This violent criminal activity is working to sabotage South Africa's economic development, and is undermining racial harmony. The solution out of this conundrum is not more law-and-order, and not more security firms, and not the reintroduction of the death penalty! That will only serve to return South Africa to a police state, but with a different master. Instead, a slow and quiet campaign of non-violent resistance to crime, and a compassionate re-education program for convicts are the most effective solutions to realizing the goals of economic peace and racial harmony.
I'd be interested in applying for a grant with the IDRC to develop concrete strategies and pilot projects for transforming violent criminals into Satyarahis. I believe this transformation is possible. As I have developed my own interest in, and understanding of, non-violence, I have realized my own violent tendencies and need to dominate, and through that awareness, relaxed into a more peaceful way of being. The difference between the violent criminals and me is only one of degree, not of kind. That is why I believe this transformation is both possible, and the best hope for economic and racial peace in South Africa.
Gandhi remained committed to nonviolence; I followed the Gandhian strategy for as long as I could, but then there came a point in our struggle when the brute force of the oppressor could no longer be countered through passive resistance alone. We founded Unkhonto we Sizwe and added a military dimension to our struggle. Even then, we chose sabotage because it did not involve the loss of life, and it offered the best hope for future race relations. Militant action became part of the African agenda officially supported by the Organization of African Unity (O.A.U.) following my address to the Pan-African Freedom Movement of East and Central Africa (PAFMECA) in 1962, in which I stated, "Force is the only language the imperialists can hear, and no country became free without some sort of violence."
Gandhi himself never ruled out violence absolutely and unreservedly. He conceded the necessity of arms in certain situations. He said, "Where choice is set between cowardice and violence, I would advise violence... I prefer to use arms in defense of honor rather than remain the vile witness of dishonor ..."
Violence and nonviolence are not mutually exclusive; it is the predominance of the one or the other that labels a struggle.
I disagree with this characterization of Gandhi. I doubt very much that the Mahatma would have endorsed violent opposition to the apartheid Regime. I imagine he would have instead argued for an even more strict application of Satyagraha, which, at its moral core is based on the concept of the application of courage and the acceptance of self-suffering as a tool for awakening the compassion and moral understanding of the oppressor.
It has become a widely accepted truism in South Africa that violence helped end apartheid. I would argue that other factors, such as economic sanctions, sports and scientific boycotts, and the end of the Soviet Union were more important. I believe that the decision to use violence will ultimately be seen as a strategic error, and that the violent wing of the struggle only served to make the regime more repressive, while also contaminating the peace in post-apartheid South Africa.
If the goal of the anti-apartheid struggle was to create racial and economic peace, then the decision to legitimize violence has delayed the realization of that goal, by creating a class of people who are willing to use violence to acquire wealth. This violent criminal activity is working to sabotage South Africa's economic development, and is undermining racial harmony. The solution out of this conundrum is not more law-and-order, and not more security firms, and not the reintroduction of the death penalty! That will only serve to return South Africa to a police state, but with a different master. Instead, a slow and quiet campaign of non-violent resistance to crime, and a compassionate re-education program for convicts are the most effective solutions to realizing the goals of economic peace and racial harmony.
I'd be interested in applying for a grant with the IDRC to develop concrete strategies and pilot projects for transforming violent criminals into Satyarahis. I believe this transformation is possible. As I have developed my own interest in, and understanding of, non-violence, I have realized my own violent tendencies and need to dominate, and through that awareness, relaxed into a more peaceful way of being. The difference between the violent criminals and me is only one of degree, not of kind. That is why I believe this transformation is both possible, and the best hope for economic and racial peace in South Africa.
Simple Living and the Now
The other day I came across this website on simple living. As my opportunities to become rich dwindle, and as my interest in and commitment to non-violence deepens, I find I am becoming increasingly interested in living simply.
Why doesn't everyone live simply? Part of the reason is fear. The fear of lack leads to greed, and the pursuit of material goods, often at the expense of morality, community, and the environment. Is there a way to trust that your needs will get met in the future? Is there a way to be more present, and by so doing, bring compassion and wisdom into everyday life?
E. Tolle suggests that if you are in the now, then you can relax, and just be. Then, whatever action arises out of your response to the now, can come from the core of your beingness. This right action can come from a place of acceptance of 'what is', and a willingness to work with 'what is.' Similarly, there is a Buddhist saying: "There is nowhere to go, there is nothing to do, and there is no one to be." This doesn't mean that we are to be complacent, instead, it means that acceptance, and a spontaneous and compassionate reaction to 'what is,' is sufficient. Another Buddhist technique is to ask yourself "Right now, what is lacking?" By constantly asking this question, you begin to discover that the present is always manageable. Relax. There is no need to worry so much about the future. And there is no need to fret about the past. Just be here now.
Why doesn't everyone live simply? Part of the reason is fear. The fear of lack leads to greed, and the pursuit of material goods, often at the expense of morality, community, and the environment. Is there a way to trust that your needs will get met in the future? Is there a way to be more present, and by so doing, bring compassion and wisdom into everyday life?
E. Tolle suggests that if you are in the now, then you can relax, and just be. Then, whatever action arises out of your response to the now, can come from the core of your beingness. This right action can come from a place of acceptance of 'what is', and a willingness to work with 'what is.' Similarly, there is a Buddhist saying: "There is nowhere to go, there is nothing to do, and there is no one to be." This doesn't mean that we are to be complacent, instead, it means that acceptance, and a spontaneous and compassionate reaction to 'what is,' is sufficient. Another Buddhist technique is to ask yourself "Right now, what is lacking?" By constantly asking this question, you begin to discover that the present is always manageable. Relax. There is no need to worry so much about the future. And there is no need to fret about the past. Just be here now.
Friday, June 8, 2007
South African Send-Off
Mamma and I have arrived safely back in Canada. We should have booked a wheelchair for Mamma - there was really too much walking for her, in both the Joberg and Heathrow airports. Once we arrived in Toronto, they immediately got us a wheelchair, and that made things a lot easier. It's clear that there are more resources and fewer people in Toronto, so it's easier to get services. Also, we missed our connection in Heathrow, but Air Canada was very helpful, and just booked us on the next available flight. I was happy to see that all our luggage arrived safely, and with everything there, as far as I can tell.
I was very touched to see so many family members there at the airport to see us off, including Auntie Carol and my cousin Christine, as well as Harold, Auntie Joan, Auntie Saroj, Uncle Raymond, and cousin Thanusha, and Uncle Cyril and Auntie Kogi. Everyone was very loving, and I felt very loved... I ended up wearing a red shirt and a striped suit. I had brought the suit for my birthday, but had left it in my mum's closet, and totally forgotten about it. I only discovered it again on our last day, so, I opted to wear it, even though it wasn't the most sensible choice.
I am very glad to be safely back in Canada, and I am looking forward to going out to BC on Sunday, so visit briefly with my friend Daryl, and then see my Dad for a week. And, of course, I am very much looking forward to seeing Sharmeen! The family in South Africa is very curious to meet her, and of course, they are encouraging us to get married! I told them I've got my best people working on it!
I was very touched to see so many family members there at the airport to see us off, including Auntie Carol and my cousin Christine, as well as Harold, Auntie Joan, Auntie Saroj, Uncle Raymond, and cousin Thanusha, and Uncle Cyril and Auntie Kogi. Everyone was very loving, and I felt very loved... I ended up wearing a red shirt and a striped suit. I had brought the suit for my birthday, but had left it in my mum's closet, and totally forgotten about it. I only discovered it again on our last day, so, I opted to wear it, even though it wasn't the most sensible choice.I am very glad to be safely back in Canada, and I am looking forward to going out to BC on Sunday, so visit briefly with my friend Daryl, and then see my Dad for a week. And, of course, I am very much looking forward to seeing Sharmeen! The family in South Africa is very curious to meet her, and of course, they are encouraging us to get married! I told them I've got my best people working on it!
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Back to Canada
Mum and I fly to Johannesberg today at 5:40 pm, and from there on to London, and then Toronto. We've had a good trip, although this has definitely been more of a working holiday, than a vacation. The family is coming over soon for a last send-off, and we'll be incommunicado until our arrival in Canada on Friday night. Wish us a safe flight!
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Last Full Day...
Tomorrow Mum and I fly home... it's been another full day. Right now Mum is cleaning the fridge... We started the day by saying goodbye to "all my ladies," including Thanusha, Auntie Saroj, and Christine. Later, we had lunch & a lively discussion with Pat Poovalingam and his wife Shakuntala. And in the evening, we had dinner with Julienne and some of her family. She has 9 children, a whole bunch of grandchildren, and one great grandchild, and she's younger than my mum! She told us the story about Auntie Sylvie's death in Sri Lanka: what an ordeal! Julienne went to accompany Auntie Sylvie to Uncle Claude's Diamond Jubilee in Sri Lanka - he had spent 60 years as a priest. Soon after, she died of a heart attack in Candy. We got a group photo in front of Auntie Sylvie's old piano to remember her. You can see all the photos here.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Long day for a Tuesday
Mum and I are winding down our trip, and so there is a rush on to fit in everyone we can. Today we visited 4 different sets of people, which was pretty hectic. We started the day at Dr. Lulu Mahabeer's place. She was good enough to serve us a lovely lunch, and we had a nice social visit. After, Leslie Peters picked us up, and we got to visit with him, and my Mum's school chum Emily, and their son Melvin, who is a jazz pianist. We had a nice time, and then made our way over to visit with Herbie and Betty Govinden. There, we discussed Satyagraha, and I pulled out the stops for an interview. And then, finally, Jackie Nagan, and her husband Aubrey picked us up, and we had dinner and discussed the Naidoo side of the family. Jackie is my second cousin, which means that her grandmother was my grandfather Naidoo's sister. What a day! You can see all the pictures here. Frankly, I'll be glad once we are safely back in Canada. I'm looking forward to just relaxing for a bit with Dad.
Satya = Truth
My commitment to and understanding of the principle of Satya continues to deepen. This from Gregg's "The Power of Non-Violence":
"In the persuasion of non-violent resistance, there must be not only gentleness and love but also truth. All human beings make mistakes. Adherence to truth requires public admission of our mistakes. If, out of pride or ignorance, we wait until others show up our error, then people mistrust both our ability and our honesty. But public confession of faults promotes trust because it shows: (1) a realiztion of one's likeness to all other people in respect to liability to error, hence a sense of human unity; (2) humility; (3) honesty; (4) disinterestedness towards one's personal fortunes; (5) willingness to pay the price of mistakes; hence (6) a sense of responsibility; (7) courage; (8) a revival of intelligence after a lapse into stupidity; and therefore (9) worthiness to be given another opportunity; and (10) the realization of an intellectual prerequisite to progress. When I have made a mistake in arithmetic, I cannot correct it and get the right answer until after I have admitted, at least to myself, that I made a mistake. Thus, in the moral realm, frankness and humility are modes of intelligence."
"In the persuasion of non-violent resistance, there must be not only gentleness and love but also truth. All human beings make mistakes. Adherence to truth requires public admission of our mistakes. If, out of pride or ignorance, we wait until others show up our error, then people mistrust both our ability and our honesty. But public confession of faults promotes trust because it shows: (1) a realiztion of one's likeness to all other people in respect to liability to error, hence a sense of human unity; (2) humility; (3) honesty; (4) disinterestedness towards one's personal fortunes; (5) willingness to pay the price of mistakes; hence (6) a sense of responsibility; (7) courage; (8) a revival of intelligence after a lapse into stupidity; and therefore (9) worthiness to be given another opportunity; and (10) the realization of an intellectual prerequisite to progress. When I have made a mistake in arithmetic, I cannot correct it and get the right answer until after I have admitted, at least to myself, that I made a mistake. Thus, in the moral realm, frankness and humility are modes of intelligence."
Comments
I know that Sharmeen, Rosemary, and Natasha read this blog, as well as perhaps Harold, and Christina and Michele and Dad more sporadically. However, it appears that you are not in the habit of leaving comments. Did you know that you can click on the "comments" button below, and leave a comment, thought, or reaction? Did you know that you can also read other people's comments? That's what the Friday Five, etc., are all about!
Today is Tuesday. We've got a full day of interviews - actually, Mum has optimistically lined up 4 interviews today (when realistically I think we can only do two). Somehow, the plan is to bend time, and get them all done. We're going to have to do that, because I've only got 4 DV tapes on me at the moment. There will be an opportunity to get more tapes tomorrow, but for today, those 4 tapes will have to do.
Today is Tuesday. We've got a full day of interviews - actually, Mum has optimistically lined up 4 interviews today (when realistically I think we can only do two). Somehow, the plan is to bend time, and get them all done. We're going to have to do that, because I've only got 4 DV tapes on me at the moment. There will be an opportunity to get more tapes tomorrow, but for today, those 4 tapes will have to do.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Monday Monday Monday
Phew... what a day... I started today carving avocado pits into heads. I was introduced to this practice by my Haida friend Gwaai. He's been carving avocado pits for years, and we used them to make the action figures for the Haida Raid movie. These heads look kind of "african," which I think makes sense, given that I'm on the continent. I was reasonably pleased with my first attempt at this. I also was pleased to see the article that Devi Rajab wrote in today's Mercury, about some of the ideas that I've discussed in this blog, about non-violent approaches to South Africa's violent crime problems, etc.. I was delighted to read the article, and I felt Devi did a good job communicating some of the key ideas in a concise manner. I will be interested to see what type of reaction she gets. It also makes me think that it'd be interested in writing a grant to develop a Satyagraha-based approach to this problem, possibly with Canadian funding. I'll give it some thought, and then contact Ila Gandhi at Satyagraha.org.za.
We had lunch at the revolving restaurant, which gave us ample wonderful views. I went up onto the roof, which was super windy, and snapped a bunch of pics and shot some video. Later, we visited Uncle Raymond & Auntie Saroj's place, and then, spent some time at Auntie Joan's. I took a bunch of pictures of old photographs (see below). It gives you pause, when you see how young and good looking everybody was. My advice: take lots of pictures now! You can see all of today's pictures here. And check out these pics from back in the day: Auntie Joan and Mamma, when they were both young, and a picture of Mamma as a young child with her brother David, her Mum and Auntie May (I think), and a woman I don't know in between...
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Birthday Weekend
Well, we've definitely celebrated my birthday in style. In addition to the party on my power day, my Auntie Carol organized a big birthday bash for me at my cousin Josie's place. We had a lovely time, with my Uncles Raymond and Cyril in attendance, along with Aunties Joan, Carol, and of course Mum, in addition to all the other aunties and uncles and cousins, etc. We even managed to get in a Skype with Christina, Vijay, and baby Jayanti in NYC. You can see all the pics here. I am pleased that I managed to get everyone to line up like this!Yesterday, Mum and I did an interview with Fatima Meer. She's not in the best health these days, but she has been a boon to the community. She has written numerous books, including:
* Portrait of Indian South Africans* Apprenticeship of a Mahatma
* Race and Suicide in South Africa
* Documents of Indentured Labour,
* The South African Gandhi: The Speeches and Writings of M.K. Gandhi
* Resistance in the Townships
* Apartheid our Picture
* Passive Resistance.
* She also authored Higher than Hope, the first authorized biography of Nelson Mandela, which was translated into 13 languages.
As Mamma is fond of saying, "Fatima Meer deserves a medal!"
After, Hester came by and picked us up and we had a lovely meal and discussion with her and Harold. Harold gave us a wood carving that Father Leo Gabriel had done for his Uncle Vincent Lawrence. That was really sweet of him. We talked about all sorts of stories and memories, and I got to hear more about Justin, my second cousin who died under mysterious circumstances in Arizona. I identify with him, because he sounded like a seeker. I'll need to visit Rosemary some time in the UK to learn more.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Social Entrepreneurship
I've been in touch with Devi Rajab, after interviewing her for the Lawrence Project. She's decided to write an article in tomorrow's paper about applying Satyagraha to the problem of violent crime here in South Africa. Success will require a sustained effort, and innovative approaches to the use of Satyagraha in this context. I also think it will be important to start small, and build on small successes, while also adhering to Gandhian principles of self-reliance. One way to do this is via Social entrepreneurship. I've just been looking at the Canadian Center for Social Entrepreneurship in Alberta, as well as the Enterprising Non-Profits guide, for ideas on how to build sustainable businesses that also transform society for the better.
How can we support the good in violent criminals and help them transform into Satyagrahis? Is this even possible? This transformation will require an attitude of compassion, and a willingness to see and support the good in others. When I was in Canada, I heard about a socially proactive business that was explicitly started to provide jobs for ex-convicts who were returning to society. Even in Canada, no one wants to hire a criminal. So, the group started a construction company with experienced formen and managers, and hired the ex-cons as labor. The ex-convicts got a job, and skills training, while also working to create houses for people in the larger economy. As I think about what I want to do next, I think I really want to find a way to marry the innovation and viability of entrepreneurship with the good works of social and environmental activism. It seems to be, this is really what the world needs right now.
How can we support the good in violent criminals and help them transform into Satyagrahis? Is this even possible? This transformation will require an attitude of compassion, and a willingness to see and support the good in others. When I was in Canada, I heard about a socially proactive business that was explicitly started to provide jobs for ex-convicts who were returning to society. Even in Canada, no one wants to hire a criminal. So, the group started a construction company with experienced formen and managers, and hired the ex-cons as labor. The ex-convicts got a job, and skills training, while also working to create houses for people in the larger economy. As I think about what I want to do next, I think I really want to find a way to marry the innovation and viability of entrepreneurship with the good works of social and environmental activism. It seems to be, this is really what the world needs right now.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Friday Five
Today Mum and I had a lovely interview with Dr. Devi Rajab. I really enjoyed meeting her, and her mother, who is also an artist (and adorable!). You can see some of the pictures here. There are also a few pics from my trip to Sibaya with Thobeka, and a pic or two from the Symphony (thanks to Nichelyn for taking us!). We've been here in South Africa for over 3 weeks now, with just 6 more days to go. Of course we've got a big party planned for Sunday, thanks to my Auntie Carol. Otherwise, Mum and I are going through the trunk of old pictures, documenting everything, and we've still got a few more interviews to shoot. We're doing our best to wrap things up.
However, my thoughts have already turned to home... so, this week's Friday Five is all about home and family:
1. Where is home for you?
2. Are you at home now, or away?
3. What do you miss about home when you are away?
4. Who are your family?
5. Can you ever really leave home?
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Happy Birthday to Me
Yesterday we celebrated my birthday (May 30th) here with family in South Africa. Back when we were first planning this trip, I knew I wanted to celebrate my birthday with my family here - that's why we did the trip in May! I started my day by waking up from a dream, and then writing down my intentions for the day:
My intentions on my power day. Let me endeavor to be conscious and non reactive. Give people space to be. Express compassion and feel love. Deep love. Sense my own depth, and not take myself too seriously. Always see the good in others, and strive to reveal that good.
I spent the morning writing emails to friends and family, and also playing around with my facebook profile. I also had a nice Skype with Michele (who is thoroughly enjoying having our dad there in BC).
In the afternoon I went with Mum, Auntie Sarojini and Uncle Raymond and Thanusha, and Auntie Joan, to the Sun Coast Casino. Auntie Saroj had baked me a lovely cake, and had brought a bottle of wine. We ate at Center Court, and I must say, for a buffet place, the food was remarkably good. I especially enjoyed all the Afrikaaner meat dishes, including various lamb ribs and pork, and their curries were good too... After, the cake was brought out with a sparkler on it. Here they sing happy birthday after you blow out the candles - a little different than what I am used to. I let the sparkler run out and cut the cake, and then we had to actually light the candles so that I could blow them out... in the end, I got a bunch of presents, including a wire basket, and Gandhi's autobiography. Thank you! You can see some pictures from the celebration here.
After, Thanusha and I went to see "Pirates of the Carribean." Visually, the movie was literally stunning, in that I felt stunned. I must say that as my interest in and commitment to non-violence deepens, I find I am getting less and less out of these kinds of movies. It was interesting to get reconnected with mainstream American culture, which seems more apocalyptic and violent than ever. Still, it was nice to see Kiera Knightly dashing all over in her bustier, and I did enjoy the more psychedelic moments in the movie. After the movie, Christine showed up briefly to wish me a happy birthday, and then we made our way home. We ended the day back here at the cottage, and I had a nice phone call with Sharmeen, who is back home in BC.
Our interview this morning has been canceled, due to poor health of our interviewee, which is too bad. Still, it's nice to have a bit of an extended break. We still have a lot to do, and less than a week left! I am looking forward to a bigger birthday party on Sunday, with Auntie Carol and her family, over at my cousin Josephine's place.
My intentions on my power day. Let me endeavor to be conscious and non reactive. Give people space to be. Express compassion and feel love. Deep love. Sense my own depth, and not take myself too seriously. Always see the good in others, and strive to reveal that good.
I spent the morning writing emails to friends and family, and also playing around with my facebook profile. I also had a nice Skype with Michele (who is thoroughly enjoying having our dad there in BC).
In the afternoon I went with Mum, Auntie Sarojini and Uncle Raymond and Thanusha, and Auntie Joan, to the Sun Coast Casino. Auntie Saroj had baked me a lovely cake, and had brought a bottle of wine. We ate at Center Court, and I must say, for a buffet place, the food was remarkably good. I especially enjoyed all the Afrikaaner meat dishes, including various lamb ribs and pork, and their curries were good too... After, the cake was brought out with a sparkler on it. Here they sing happy birthday after you blow out the candles - a little different than what I am used to. I let the sparkler run out and cut the cake, and then we had to actually light the candles so that I could blow them out... in the end, I got a bunch of presents, including a wire basket, and Gandhi's autobiography. Thank you! You can see some pictures from the celebration here. After, Thanusha and I went to see "Pirates of the Carribean." Visually, the movie was literally stunning, in that I felt stunned. I must say that as my interest in and commitment to non-violence deepens, I find I am getting less and less out of these kinds of movies. It was interesting to get reconnected with mainstream American culture, which seems more apocalyptic and violent than ever. Still, it was nice to see Kiera Knightly dashing all over in her bustier, and I did enjoy the more psychedelic moments in the movie. After the movie, Christine showed up briefly to wish me a happy birthday, and then we made our way home. We ended the day back here at the cottage, and I had a nice phone call with Sharmeen, who is back home in BC.
Our interview this morning has been canceled, due to poor health of our interviewee, which is too bad. Still, it's nice to have a bit of an extended break. We still have a lot to do, and less than a week left! I am looking forward to a bigger birthday party on Sunday, with Auntie Carol and her family, over at my cousin Josephine's place.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Non-Violent Resistance to Violent Crime in South Africa
Having spent 3 weeks here in South Africa, it is clear to me that one of South Africa's biggest problems is violent crime. The most pernicious form of which involves shocking acts of cruelty reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's film "A Clockwork Orange." There was an example in the paper of a white man who was stripped naked by thugs who then crazy-glued his exercise bike and made him sit on the bike, and then proceeded to crazy glue this mouth shut and rob him. Attacks like these induce fear and revulsion in the population, and lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair.
How are people responding to South Africa's crime problem? My observation is that there has been an explosion of security firms. This has led to the employment of many people, including many Africans, and at best, has created tiny islands of safety, e.g., the Gateway Mall outside of Durban is a place where people of all races can come together in security. Similarly, people with money have walls around their houses, which are then protected by locks and "armed response" teams. The end result is that people of means are relatively safe in their homes, and criminals now rob them in their drive ways, or car jack them, or somehow catch them in transit. It must be remembered that many poor South African's are also victims of violent crime, and indeed, South Africa is purported to have the highest incidence of reported rape in the world.
I have been reading Richard Gregg's "The Power of Non-Violence," which has helped me to better understand the principles of Satyagraha. And, I've also become very interested in Marshall Rosenberg's Non-Violent Communication. Both approaches maintain that you cannot solve any problem at the level of the problem. A violent response to thugs only serves to reinforce the idea that problems can be solved through violence. In a sense, you are agreeing with the criminals, that might really does make right. The increased security approach is already showing its limitations, and it is clear that it will never solve the security problem in South Africa, or it might do so by returning South Africa to a police state.
There is now an opportunity to explore alternative approaches to reducing violent crime in South Africa. One such approach would involve a Satyagraha campaign aimed at discrediting the use of violence to achieve economic means, and instead, supporting individuals in finding non-violent ways to meet their own needs for economic and personal security, as well as their needs for meaning, and self-respect.
This is a tall order, but it is no more difficult than other non-violent struggles that have been attempted, either here in South Africa against the white racist government, or elsewhere (e.g., against the British in India, against the Nazis in the Netherlands, against racist whites in the Southern United States). The only difference is that the people whose minds we are trying to change are not part of any government and they are not in charge, although many are part of organized crime syndicates operating within the country.
Before we can begin to articulate a plan for a Satyagraha campaign against violent crime, it is important to understand the psychology of our opponent. An important tool in disarming our opponents is empathy. I would argue that the men who stripped that man of his clothes and crazy glued him to his bicycle seat, have, themselves, suffered from feelings of being emasculated and rendered helpless and voiceless. From this perspective, their violent act can be seen as a tragic attempt to seek empathy, in this case, by victimizing someone else. As such, an important part of our strategy must be to give our opponent empathy, in an attempt to help them remember their humanity (by treating them like human beings instead of enemies), and help them recover their sanity.
Another aspect we must address is youth thug (or Tsotsi) culture. As in the United States, violent gang culture has been celebrated, and becomes for its participants an identity. Gang members form an identity for themselves that is based on being bad and violent and tough. When newspapers criticize the acts of "violet criminals," this only serves to reinforce their identity as bad people. This is just another form of ego inflation, but in this case organized around being the baddest and the toughest, and the most unfeeling. It is important to remember that this identity is only a persona, and not who the person really is. Change will hinge on helping people disidentify with this identity as a gangster, and helping them instead realize their own capacity for feelings of vulnerability and love.
It also goes without saying that the vast majority of criminals who are commiting these crimes are young black men. In this way, this Satyagraha would be different than previous campaigns, because the people whose minds we are trying to change have been traditionally disempowered and disadvantaged. As such, this campagin may require different tools of passive resistance and active non-violent communication.
Progress will depend in part on getting past enemy imagery, and seeing the humanity of our opponent, but what then? The next step involves identifying opportunities for contact with violent criminals, and then creating situations where the power of non-violence can be used to maximum advantage. Let me explore some possible leverage points:
1) Prisoners. South Africa has many violent criminals in prison. Instead of judging these people, and reinforcing their identity as the "worst of the worst," which just plays into their egos, and reinforces a culture of violence and retributive justice, we could instead adopt methods pioneered by Kiran Bedi, who reformed the infamous Tihar jail in India. I would propose an active campaign that provided empathy for prisoners, vipassana meditation, education and vocational training, as well as training as Satyagrahis. Even a handful of Satyagrahis taken from the ranks of South African jails could have a massive impact on this struggle. No one understands the motivations of gangsters better than the gangsters themselves. These gangsters cum Satyagrahis would then be in the best position to provide for a coordinated Satyagraha campaign to target communities.
2) Transforming Victim Consciousness. Part of the campaign should also focus on developing Satyagraha among the ordinary population. Gandhi maintained that Satyagraha requires courage, and a willingness to suffer, and a desire to change the mind and heart of the attacker without inflicting suffering on them.
How can we confront violent criminals in a non-violent way that communicates self-respect and respect for the attacker, without taking foolish risks? The answer will require more research, and I think it will involve Non-Violent Communication, and a delicate balance between asserting one's right to personal and economic safety and a willingness to let go of one's personal possessions. This idea could be extended even further: a willingness on the part of wealthy South Africans to embrace voluntary simplicity and live with less, and instead invest in strategies for making sure that everyone's needs get met, including the need for economic and personal security for all.
3) Youth. There are already many programs aimed at "at-risk" youth in South Africa. These programs could be strengthened, and students could be taught Non-Violent Communication skills, as well as educational and vocational skills. Personally, I am very interested in initiatives aimed at increasing internet access to disadvantaged areas.
4) Children. I am particularly interested in training youth to in turn train children in Non-Violent Communication. This, along with access to education and opportunity, can help South Africans create a peaceful and prosperous nation.
5) Positive Visions of the Future. Finally, I think it is important to put our energy into developing positive visions of the future we want to manifest, instead of energizing our fears. With so much mineral and agricultural wealth, and with a solid infrastructure and roads, and with only 44 million people, it should be possible to create a safe and prosperous South Africa. This would be a country that ensured economic and personal security for all its citizens, as well as ample room for personal autonomy and expression, including linguistic and cultural diversity. South Africa is a microcosm of the same problems that are facing the rest of the world, and as such, there are many allies all over the world seeking to solve these challenges through non-violent means.
How are people responding to South Africa's crime problem? My observation is that there has been an explosion of security firms. This has led to the employment of many people, including many Africans, and at best, has created tiny islands of safety, e.g., the Gateway Mall outside of Durban is a place where people of all races can come together in security. Similarly, people with money have walls around their houses, which are then protected by locks and "armed response" teams. The end result is that people of means are relatively safe in their homes, and criminals now rob them in their drive ways, or car jack them, or somehow catch them in transit. It must be remembered that many poor South African's are also victims of violent crime, and indeed, South Africa is purported to have the highest incidence of reported rape in the world.
I have been reading Richard Gregg's "The Power of Non-Violence," which has helped me to better understand the principles of Satyagraha. And, I've also become very interested in Marshall Rosenberg's Non-Violent Communication. Both approaches maintain that you cannot solve any problem at the level of the problem. A violent response to thugs only serves to reinforce the idea that problems can be solved through violence. In a sense, you are agreeing with the criminals, that might really does make right. The increased security approach is already showing its limitations, and it is clear that it will never solve the security problem in South Africa, or it might do so by returning South Africa to a police state.
There is now an opportunity to explore alternative approaches to reducing violent crime in South Africa. One such approach would involve a Satyagraha campaign aimed at discrediting the use of violence to achieve economic means, and instead, supporting individuals in finding non-violent ways to meet their own needs for economic and personal security, as well as their needs for meaning, and self-respect.
This is a tall order, but it is no more difficult than other non-violent struggles that have been attempted, either here in South Africa against the white racist government, or elsewhere (e.g., against the British in India, against the Nazis in the Netherlands, against racist whites in the Southern United States). The only difference is that the people whose minds we are trying to change are not part of any government and they are not in charge, although many are part of organized crime syndicates operating within the country.
Before we can begin to articulate a plan for a Satyagraha campaign against violent crime, it is important to understand the psychology of our opponent. An important tool in disarming our opponents is empathy. I would argue that the men who stripped that man of his clothes and crazy glued him to his bicycle seat, have, themselves, suffered from feelings of being emasculated and rendered helpless and voiceless. From this perspective, their violent act can be seen as a tragic attempt to seek empathy, in this case, by victimizing someone else. As such, an important part of our strategy must be to give our opponent empathy, in an attempt to help them remember their humanity (by treating them like human beings instead of enemies), and help them recover their sanity.
Another aspect we must address is youth thug (or Tsotsi) culture. As in the United States, violent gang culture has been celebrated, and becomes for its participants an identity. Gang members form an identity for themselves that is based on being bad and violent and tough. When newspapers criticize the acts of "violet criminals," this only serves to reinforce their identity as bad people. This is just another form of ego inflation, but in this case organized around being the baddest and the toughest, and the most unfeeling. It is important to remember that this identity is only a persona, and not who the person really is. Change will hinge on helping people disidentify with this identity as a gangster, and helping them instead realize their own capacity for feelings of vulnerability and love.
It also goes without saying that the vast majority of criminals who are commiting these crimes are young black men. In this way, this Satyagraha would be different than previous campaigns, because the people whose minds we are trying to change have been traditionally disempowered and disadvantaged. As such, this campagin may require different tools of passive resistance and active non-violent communication.
Progress will depend in part on getting past enemy imagery, and seeing the humanity of our opponent, but what then? The next step involves identifying opportunities for contact with violent criminals, and then creating situations where the power of non-violence can be used to maximum advantage. Let me explore some possible leverage points:
1) Prisoners. South Africa has many violent criminals in prison. Instead of judging these people, and reinforcing their identity as the "worst of the worst," which just plays into their egos, and reinforces a culture of violence and retributive justice, we could instead adopt methods pioneered by Kiran Bedi, who reformed the infamous Tihar jail in India. I would propose an active campaign that provided empathy for prisoners, vipassana meditation, education and vocational training, as well as training as Satyagrahis. Even a handful of Satyagrahis taken from the ranks of South African jails could have a massive impact on this struggle. No one understands the motivations of gangsters better than the gangsters themselves. These gangsters cum Satyagrahis would then be in the best position to provide for a coordinated Satyagraha campaign to target communities.
2) Transforming Victim Consciousness. Part of the campaign should also focus on developing Satyagraha among the ordinary population. Gandhi maintained that Satyagraha requires courage, and a willingness to suffer, and a desire to change the mind and heart of the attacker without inflicting suffering on them.
How can we confront violent criminals in a non-violent way that communicates self-respect and respect for the attacker, without taking foolish risks? The answer will require more research, and I think it will involve Non-Violent Communication, and a delicate balance between asserting one's right to personal and economic safety and a willingness to let go of one's personal possessions. This idea could be extended even further: a willingness on the part of wealthy South Africans to embrace voluntary simplicity and live with less, and instead invest in strategies for making sure that everyone's needs get met, including the need for economic and personal security for all.
3) Youth. There are already many programs aimed at "at-risk" youth in South Africa. These programs could be strengthened, and students could be taught Non-Violent Communication skills, as well as educational and vocational skills. Personally, I am very interested in initiatives aimed at increasing internet access to disadvantaged areas.
4) Children. I am particularly interested in training youth to in turn train children in Non-Violent Communication. This, along with access to education and opportunity, can help South Africans create a peaceful and prosperous nation.
5) Positive Visions of the Future. Finally, I think it is important to put our energy into developing positive visions of the future we want to manifest, instead of energizing our fears. With so much mineral and agricultural wealth, and with a solid infrastructure and roads, and with only 44 million people, it should be possible to create a safe and prosperous South Africa. This would be a country that ensured economic and personal security for all its citizens, as well as ample room for personal autonomy and expression, including linguistic and cultural diversity. South Africa is a microcosm of the same problems that are facing the rest of the world, and as such, there are many allies all over the world seeking to solve these challenges through non-violent means.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Back from Mariannhill
Mum and I made a trip with Harold and Thanusha out to Mariannhill today (now the Missionaries of Mariannhill), to meet with Father Henry. We had a good visit, and I found Father Henry to be quite warm, and full of good stories.We have a story that Vincent Lawrence and Gandhi walked out to Mariannhill together, back when it was still a Trappist Monastery. Apparently Gandhi had planned to write an article critical of missionary Christians, but he was so impressed by the piety, vegetarianism, and industry of the Trappist monks, that he scrapped the article. Things changed in 1909, when Rome ordered that the monastery should be changed into a mission. Even so, they are still involved in schools, skills training, and Mariannhill has become the largest diocese in South Africa outside of Johannesberg, so they've been quite successful at converting people to Catholicism.
I took a bunch of pictures and also shot video. As usual, my video camera was a big hit with the kids, and I've got the video to prove it! I let the kids film their own video, and that resulted in children literally doing back flips for the camera! I also have some video of the kids and I dancing and clapping. It's clear to me that these children come from a strong musical and rhythmic tradition, and that their sense of music and rhythm is very sophisticated, especially when compared to my own.
Later, we shot the interview with Father Henry, and we got to see some of the archives. I have been particularly impressed by the founder of Mariannhill, Franz Pfanner: he sounds like he was quite the charismatic leader, original thinker, and man of God (in the best sense of the phrase). I also learned a bit about Bernard Huss, who was quite active in promoting self-sufficiency among African peoples in the region, and has been described as a kindered spirit of Gandhi's (although they never met in person).You can see all my pictures from today here.
No rest for the weary: weekend in review
Today we're about to head out to Marian Hill Monestary, which was a big source of inspiration for Gandhi, especially around the creation of his intentional communities, like Phoenix. This has been a busy weekend, and I am looking forward to having a more relaxed visit to the Monastery. On Friday night we Skyped Christina and Dad, back in Waterloo. Dad was scheduled to fly to Vancouver on Sunday, and so we are now waiting to hear back from him.
On Saturday we made a trip to City Hall, where Mum had given an address years ago, during the height of apartheid, to the Catholic Youth of Durban. It was a gutsy thing for the Church to do at the time: Archbishop Hurley was on the stage, and Mum wore a white sari. Later, we visited St. Anthony's Church. Vincent Lawrence was instrumental in founding St. Anthony's, and many of my relatives here were educated in the adjacent school. Finally, we made a trip to Durban's Botanical Gardens, most of which was off-limits to Indians during Apartheid. We ended Saturday night with a celebration of Graeme's birthday. The family had organized a typical South African "braai," and, in Indian fashion, the men were all outside around the bri, and the women were largely inside. The food was fabulous.
On Sunday we interviewed Hassam Seedat. Mr. Seedat was an anti-apartheid activist, and also has an extensive Gandhi library. After the interview, he was good enough to show me his amazing Cycad garden. He even showed me how to propagate these rare plants. We also looked at a number of pictures, including of him and Farida, when they got married, as well as a picture of his newborn son, taken when Mr. Seedat was in prison for his anti-apartheid activities (he saw his newborn son for the first time in prison).
You can see all the pictures from this weekend here.
On Saturday we made a trip to City Hall, where Mum had given an address years ago, during the height of apartheid, to the Catholic Youth of Durban. It was a gutsy thing for the Church to do at the time: Archbishop Hurley was on the stage, and Mum wore a white sari. Later, we visited St. Anthony's Church. Vincent Lawrence was instrumental in founding St. Anthony's, and many of my relatives here were educated in the adjacent school. Finally, we made a trip to Durban's Botanical Gardens, most of which was off-limits to Indians during Apartheid. We ended Saturday night with a celebration of Graeme's birthday. The family had organized a typical South African "braai," and, in Indian fashion, the men were all outside around the bri, and the women were largely inside. The food was fabulous.On Sunday we interviewed Hassam Seedat. Mr. Seedat was an anti-apartheid activist, and also has an extensive Gandhi library. After the interview, he was good enough to show me his amazing Cycad garden. He even showed me how to propagate these rare plants. We also looked at a number of pictures, including of him and Farida, when they got married, as well as a picture of his newborn son, taken when Mr. Seedat was in prison for his anti-apartheid activities (he saw his newborn son for the first time in prison).You can see all the pictures from this weekend here.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Two weeks down: two to go
Well, we've finished up another week here in Durban, which leaves us just under two weeks to go... After a slow start, with no land line, and a multitude of small obstacles, we've now actually made some good progress: so far I've shot 15 hours of footage, and I've expect to shoot another 15 hours, all to make a 30 minute documentary!
This morning, Harold and I went to the West St. Cemetery, to document the Lawrence grave. We were both shocked to see the Lawrence gravestone knocked over, and lying on the ground! To make matters worse, Harold's parents' gravestone (i.e., the Joseph gravestone) was also on the ground... I can only imagine how he felt. Harold made a call, and I am confident that this will be sorted out before we leave. I'm glad Mamma wasn't there with us: she would have had a conniption to see the Lawrence gravestone all tossed over on its side. I mean, Mum had her box of Lawrence documents put in the bank vault before we left Canada!
Afterwards, we went to the Emanuel Cathedral, where Vincent Lawrence went every day for mass at 6 o'clock in the morning, having said his prayers at 3 o'clock in the morning... I find it hard to imagine this level of commitment to Catholicism, and clearly, his faith ran deep. After, we walked across the street to the Madressa Arcade, where Lawrence had an office for many years. I enjoyed being in the bazaar, and I was also glad to have Harold there, watching my back as I shot all sorts of footage with my video camera. I really enjoy spending time with Harold: he's full of colorful commentary and good stories, and I felt confident that he'd be able to take care of any trouble.
Afterwards, Mum, Harold, and I went out to Kloof to visit Dr. Joy Brain, who has written a book on Catholic Indians in Natal. It was interesting to get out to a white area, and to cross the color line, as it were. We had a lively discussion that ranged from Catholicism, the nature of faith and conversion, to life in the new South Africa.
This morning, Harold and I went to the West St. Cemetery, to document the Lawrence grave. We were both shocked to see the Lawrence gravestone knocked over, and lying on the ground! To make matters worse, Harold's parents' gravestone (i.e., the Joseph gravestone) was also on the ground... I can only imagine how he felt. Harold made a call, and I am confident that this will be sorted out before we leave. I'm glad Mamma wasn't there with us: she would have had a conniption to see the Lawrence gravestone all tossed over on its side. I mean, Mum had her box of Lawrence documents put in the bank vault before we left Canada! Afterwards, we went to the Emanuel Cathedral, where Vincent Lawrence went every day for mass at 6 o'clock in the morning, having said his prayers at 3 o'clock in the morning... I find it hard to imagine this level of commitment to Catholicism, and clearly, his faith ran deep. After, we walked across the street to the Madressa Arcade, where Lawrence had an office for many years. I enjoyed being in the bazaar, and I was also glad to have Harold there, watching my back as I shot all sorts of footage with my video camera. I really enjoy spending time with Harold: he's full of colorful commentary and good stories, and I felt confident that he'd be able to take care of any trouble. Afterwards, Mum, Harold, and I went out to Kloof to visit Dr. Joy Brain, who has written a book on Catholic Indians in Natal. It was interesting to get out to a white area, and to cross the color line, as it were. We had a lively discussion that ranged from Catholicism, the nature of faith and conversion, to life in the new South Africa.
African Friday Five
This weeks friday five is all about Africa...
1. What is your favorite African food?
2. What is your favorite place in Africa?
3. What is your favorite African animal?
4. What is your favorite African music?
5. What is your favorite African language?
1. What is your favorite African food?
2. What is your favorite place in Africa?
3. What is your favorite African animal?
4. What is your favorite African music?
5. What is your favorite African language?
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Phoenix Rising
Well, back in October, I made a cardboard Phoenix Egg for the WRJ Halloween parade, that my friends dutifully burned on my behalf. So, it's interesting for me to have spent the day at Gandhi's Phoenix Settlement here in South Africa. This settlement too, was burned to the ground, during the apartheid government inspired race riots of 1985, and is in the midst of its own rebirth...The family stories tell us that Vincent and Josephine Lawrence came here to Phoenix Settlement back when it was first getting started. Here, people of different faiths and cultures prayed together outside, and worked together in community. Gandhi's house was called Sarvodaya, which means "welfare for all." Apparently, my grandmother Naidoo remembered being bounced on Kellenbach's knee when she was a little girl.
The visit to Phoenix was really special. We had talked about going there when we were back in Canada, and I am glad that we made it. I took a bunch of photos, which you can see here. Our tour guide was a Mr. Bongani, who was very patient with all our filming, and vain attempts to find the foundation stone with Vincent Lawrence's name on it. We also got to meet Thobeka, a teacher at the school that is now at the settlement. While I was filming, the kids got out of school, and they were all fascinated by my video camera. I think this might have been my favorite part. At one point, Harold suggested that the kids sing a song. The kids were understandably reluctant to do so. So, I went and joined them on camera, and we sang the only song I figured we'd both know: Happy Birthday. Of course, I am celebrating my birthday at the end of the month, and so, it was fun to celebrate in this way.
Ila Gandhi and Auntie Francie
Yesterday mum and I went over to Currie's Fountain sports field, which used to be an active site of Indian political activity and organization. We were over there to interview Ila Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's grand daughter. She is actively involved in the Satyagraha movement, and has started a paper in South Africa called Satyagraha. We had a lovely interview with her, and I picked up a copy of "The Power of Non-Violence." Afterwards, we went for lunch with Auntie Francie and Auntie Maureen. Auntie Francie made a huge and lovely banquet for us! We got to review the Gabriel family tree, and heard about the "juicy bits" from the treasure trove of family stories. I am intrigued not only by Vincent Lawrence, but also by Ammonee, my great great grandmother. She came to South Africa as a passenger Indian when she was 13 years old, with her cousin. She had two children out of wedlock: one with an Indian soldier, and another with the local magistrate (she was his housekeeper). Eventually, she married Perumal Gabriel, my great great grandfather, and had another 8 kids with him! I am discovering that my ancestors are a varied and colorful lot. There are lots of family stories, with a whole diversity of life paths, including both success and tragedy.
I've taken a bunch of pictures, which you can see here.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Progress...
I've posted some pics from our last few days here. On Sunday we had a lovely dinner at my Uncle Cyril's and Auntie Kogi's house. Auntie Kogi made some lovely food, including pickled fish and lamb biryani. I borrowed some of Uncle Cyril's prize pictures of my grandfather Naidoo, and my great grandfather Naidoo (Marayan Naidoo, pictured here on the left, with his wife from the Cape, Minimal Cecilia). The day before we made a trip to my grandmother and grandfather Naidoo's grave. We visited a number of different sites, and I shot a bunch of video, including Resistance Park in Durban.Yesterday we visited the documentary center over at the Westville campus. We came across an interesting family tree for the Gabriel family, which we think was done by my Auntie Maureen Gabriel. We'll have a chance to discuss this with her tomorrow. There was precious little on Vincent Lawrence. He's the main reason we are here. He served with Gandhi in the Volunteer Indian Ambulance Corps during the Anglo-Boer War, and helped keep the Natal Indian Congress going while Gandhi was off in the Transvaal. We also have a picture that we think includes Vincent Lawrence bidding farewell to Gandhi, before Gandhi's return to India. See below.
Today Mum and I did our first interview with Dr. Goolam Vahed. Previously, we had done a lot of informal interviews. Anyway, it felt good to make this start. Dr. Vahed has also been looking at Christian Indians in South Africa for a chapter in his new book. He had a bunch of information on the Gabriel Family that I still need to go through...
Tomorrow we are scheduled to see Ila Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's grand daughter. And in the afternoon we'll see my mum's Auntie Franci. We'll have lunch, and a chance to interview Auntie Franci and Maureen, on the Gabriel side of the family.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Today I went for a walk
Friday Five
While I'm trying to not worry too much about Dad, I figure I might as well post a Friday Five. This is something we used to do on the uvScene. Here are some questions that have come up based on my research into the family back here:
1. Are you part of an extended family?
2. Is there any mixed ancestry in your family?
3. Any family secrets that you've recently discovered?
4. How important is it to remember your ancestors?
5. Are you doing anything to remember them?
1. Are you part of an extended family?
2. Is there any mixed ancestry in your family?
3. Any family secrets that you've recently discovered?
4. How important is it to remember your ancestors?
5. Are you doing anything to remember them?
News from Home
I tried calling my Dad this afternoon (morning back in Canada) and I was unable to reach him. So I tried again, and then again. And then I started to worry. Anyway, I just got an email from my brother-in-law, Vijay, saying that Dad was taken to the hospital today. It doesn't sound too bad: just a urinary tract infection. Thanks to Mona for taking him to the hospital, and Michele for checking up on him (during her drive back to BC from the Moab desert), and thanks also to Vijay for letting us know what was going on. I'll try calling later tonight to Grand River Hospital in KW to see how he's doing. Dad was scheduled to fly tomorrow to BC, and I'm not sure how this is going to impact his travel plans.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Documents
The other day, Ian (my mum's cousin's son), brought over a box of memorabilia from Auntie May, Ian's grandmother. I am about to go through the box with mum, and take pictures of all the documents. It is sobering to see a person's life reduced to a box full of memorabilia... it reminds me of the impermanence of form.
My Auntie Joan sent us a copy of a "Gandhi in South Africa" comic, put together by the folks at Tolstoy's Farm. Tolstoy's Farm was an intentional community that Gandhi founded near Johannesberg. It sounds like the community is now just fields, but there are plans for a tourist and teaching center. The comic is part of an effort to teach regular South Africans about the role Gandhi played in the struggle, and about the birth of Non-Violence (Satyagraha) here in South Africa. Of course, I am partial to comics as a form of expression, ever since the founding of the Center for Cartoon Studies in WRJ VT, so I was interested to see this!
Harold was also good enough to drop off Auntie Baby's scrapbook. I went through it last night and took pictures of all the pages. Auntie Baby's real name was Francesca Lawrence and she was married to Michael Joseph. She was a trained singer, and performed in many different musicals. I came across some great pictures of my 2nd cousin once-removed Rosemary, whom I visited in the UK back in 1989. There is also an interesting picture of my grand uncle, George Lawrence, in a group called the "Jazz Bandits" - I am sure that my brother-in-law Vijay Iyer will be amused to hear this! Finally, I found a goofy picture of me and my family from my graduation from the KW Bilingual School! I've included it here for you amusement.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Tuesday Pics
I've finally uploaded some pictures onto my Flickr from here. I have to pay for my bandwidth with the cellular modem we're using, so it looks like I'll only be uploading a dribble, instead of the usual torrent of pics. Somehow I haven't managed to get a picture of Auntie Joan, and I will endeavor to rectify that as soon as possible!Yesterday we went out in the morning with Auntie Saroj, Uncle Raymond, and my cousin Thanusha. Auntie Saroj has been a huge help, driving us all over the place without complaint. We needed to cash some traveler's checks, which took a long time. I find traveler's checks more of a hassle than a help these days, and usually prefer to go with my ATM card. Anyway, I did manage to get some traditional South African bunny chow at the end of the day, which consists of curry in a bread bowl, so I was happy about that. Later, it was back to the cottage, with my mother's second cousin (yes - that's what it's like being in an extended family!), Ian Lazarus, coming by to drop off a trunk of memorabilia from my Grand Auntie May.
This morning I woke up feeling a bit blue. Perhaps the isolation of being stuck in the cottage is getting to me. With the security situation being the way it is, I sometimes feel like I am under house arrest. I imagine a lot of people feel that way. Perhaps things are not as bad as people say, but it still makes sense to be cautious... I've also been coordinating with people back home on the Haidawood project, and it's due today, so hopefully that will all get sent off okay. It's out of my hands, so what will be will be.
My mum's cousin Harold came by today, and took us out to Gateway. No, it's not the computer company: apparently it is the largest shopping mall in the Southern Hemisphere. The place was huge and very well appointed, and very first world. I felt like I could have been in Texas or Arizona. This was quite a contrast from the central business district of Durban, which is now looking much more African and third world, although not really bad at all.
I did my first taping of an "interview" today for the Lawrence Project. Really, it was just mom and Harold talking. I used the wide angle lens, 'cause they were sitting so far apart. I'll have to upload the footage and take a look. There was a lot of good information exchanged, and it gave me some hope for this project. If I can just get 6-10 interviews, and shoot some B-roll footage at the various historical locations we've identified, and if we can do all this without getting into trouble, well, then we should be in good shape for a "standard" type of documentary.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Mother's Day
Today is mother's day, and of course I'm here in South Africa with "Mamma." I made her this little comic as a mother's day card.Today we went out with Uncle Raymond, Auntie Saroj, and Thanusha, for lunch out at Wilson's Warf. The food was only so-so, but the people there were very nice, and we had a lovely view of the water, etc. We also made a short trip to the Musgrave Center, to get some supplies. Mum and I are back at the cottage now. We made a brief call to Dad, and mum just got off the phone with my cousin Hyacinthia. Unfortunately we seem to have run out of time on the cell phone, so we are back to being incommunicado for now...
We still need to figure out a car, and possibly arrange for some kind of security for some of the shoots. Our relatives have warned us about the dangers of crime, and so it only makes sense to proceed cautiously.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Arrived in South Africa
After a 2 day trip, Mum and I have finally arrived here in South Africa. We were delighted to have Uncle Raymond, Auntie Sarojini, my cousin Thanusha, and Aunti Joan all there to meet us. From the airport, we were whisked away to the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. We've arranged to stay at a cottage here during our one-month visit to South Africa.
I was exhausted the first day, and spent most of the time catching up on sleep. Friday was better, and Auntie Saroj was good enough to drive us all over, helping me get a cell phone, printer, and cell modem. So, now we are more-or-less all hooked-up. We are still waiting for our land line to come through: there seems to be a problem with that. And we've still got to figure out a car to get around. We're concerned about the security situation here, so that is a big consideration.
Today we totally slept in. I woke up thinking it was 10 am, only to discover that it was more like 1 pm! Anyway, Mum and I have spent the day organizing our things, and making phone calls and the like. It's clear that we'll need to make good use of our time if we're going to accomplish everything we want to, before we leave on June 8th.
I was exhausted the first day, and spent most of the time catching up on sleep. Friday was better, and Auntie Saroj was good enough to drive us all over, helping me get a cell phone, printer, and cell modem. So, now we are more-or-less all hooked-up. We are still waiting for our land line to come through: there seems to be a problem with that. And we've still got to figure out a car to get around. We're concerned about the security situation here, so that is a big consideration.
Today we totally slept in. I woke up thinking it was 10 am, only to discover that it was more like 1 pm! Anyway, Mum and I have spent the day organizing our things, and making phone calls and the like. It's clear that we'll need to make good use of our time if we're going to accomplish everything we want to, before we leave on June 8th.
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