A Sunset and a Saturday

Last evening at sunset, we took a walk in the neighborhood.

 This is looking west, toward the Trinity Alps. 

I've always enjoyed the tranquil beauty of an evening walk, particularly during the crisp, cooler months. Not too chilly, mind you—just enough to create a refreshing ambiance - and put the rosy back in our cheeks!  After our stroll, we settled in the front yard - There was a gentle breeze that danced softly through the trees. Soon, the temperatures began to drop, signaling it was time for us to retreat indoors.

Our new friends invited us to see them play at the Sikh Cultural Festival. She is in a Klezmer band. Now, for those who do not know what that is, it is the instrumental music tradition of the Ashkenazi Jews (Yiddish) of Central and Eastern Europe. My husband and I have always enjoyed that genre of music and have a few CDs of it. 

Think Fiddler on the Roof as a start. 

And there they were! 

There was an opening flag ceremony - 

and, of course, my husband as always,  jumps in to help - 

so he carried the flag of Australia. 

The Sikh community generously offered a complimentary lunch featuring a delightful fusion of various cuisines. 

The spread included flavorful Sikh dishes, Filipino specialties, Mexican fare, Native American options, savory Chinese meals, and delicious Hwong delicacies. I only recognized fried rice, spring rolls, and Pancit, so there were many dishes I had not ever tried before.  They even had American pizza, which I skipped since I can enjoy that anytime! The portions were huge, ensuring no one was left hungry. After such a hearty meal, we indulged in some delicious ice cream for dessert. Remarkably, they refused any donations, insisting that this lunch was their gift to the community, showcasing their commitment to giving back.

Then, the Aztec women's dance group 

Entertained us with a powerful harvest dance. 

 

Each dancer beautifully handcrafted their costume. 

Next, the scene unfolded with the vibrant rhythms of a traditional Filipino folk dance involving skillfully clashing bamboo sticks. 

Dancers gracefully moved in sync, their feet tapping to the lively beat while the bamboo poles snapped together in a rhythmic cadence, creating a joyful atmosphere steeped in cultural heritage.

Another folk dance unfolded, featuring the Hwong girls, recently crowned state champions alongside their peers.   They moved with an elegance that everyone enjoyed.  Their choreography blended intricate steps and harmonious rhythm - I can see why they won. The girls radiated beauty and grace, their smiles lighting up the scene as they danced. 

The Umbrella dance moved me to tears. It’s a heartwarming experience to witness young individuals so passionately embrace their cultural heritage. The audience was richer for having watched such an enchanting display.

Jesus loves the little children,
All the children of the world;
Red and yellow, black and white,
All are precious in his sight,
Jesus loves the little children of the world.

And then this...

Amidst the vibrant performances and lively atmosphere, civil leaders took to the stage, launching into lengthy speeches that felt more like tirades. Some admonished the audience on subjects that veered sharply away from the festive mood, topics that most attendees seemed disinterested in. While we all had gathered to revel in the rich tapestry of international music and the beauty of diverse cultures, their words hung in the air like an unwanted cloud. I noticed the frustration on the faces around me—many an eye roll punctuated the speeches. The lively energy gradually dulled, leaving an uncomfortable silence that weighed heavily over the crowd.

We decided to leave. It felt as if the very spirit of celebration had been stifled.

All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed the three hours we spent there and made the most of our time together. 

 

Psalm 96:3

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.”

Debby