The opening ceremonies were very entertaining. First we had our priests open with prayers.
We had the ZAGNY Choir perform "Khudavind Khavind" and "Khan Ashem Vaho."
Here's a link to the next song they performed, "Khan Ashem Vohu:"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRU9gtQJN0w&feature=context-cha
The beautiful music you hear in the video is not a recording as many people assumed. Two very talented musicians accompanied the choir in the performance.
Next the flags were presented by service members from both the United States and Canada. I was so moved by the presentation of the colors.
Later in the day Ervad Soli Dastur, spoke on Core Beliefs. The one topic Ervad Dastur mentioned that really stuck with me was our relationship with God. We as Zarathushtis different relationship with Ahura Mazda than our friends of other faiths do. We don't see Ahura Mazda as an overarching Father and one who is stern and authoritative. For years, I had described him as a loving Grandfather to my friends. In his talk, Ervad Dastur described the relationship as that of two friends. I really like that analogy. Think about this idea for a moment. Ahura Mazda is my friend. He is there for me when I need him and I in turn work to do my utmost best everyday for him. For those of you who know, you can see why this idea is so brilliant and totally fits my personality. I take my friendships in life very seriously. I try to surround myself with people who are happy, fun loving, and are truly dedicated to being kind compassionate individuals. I do this primarily because I want to become a better person. There is always room for improvement and you are after all "the company to keep." So as I move forward in the coming months and years, I am going to make a more concerted effort to strengthen my relationship with my friend Ahura Mazda.
Finally, the moment you are all waiting for: my speech. I do have to admit, I was very nervous. I had never given a speech of any kind before I don't think of myself as a public leader. I was very shy as a kid and I guess I still have the little kid inside me who would rather hide than be in the center of attention. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. And I am no longer afraid of public speaking. Being on stage and telling my story made me realize one thing: I am not alone. I have the love and support of a community. They may be living in different places all around the world, but they are out there. Here are just a few of the comments I heard in the three days following my speech:
1) "You go girl! You will reach the top of the mountain soon, and it's all down hill from here."
2) "You are all beautiful! Bring it (the youth involvement) to the UK!"
3) "You are truly awesome."
4) "You brought me to tears."
5) "Thank you for your service to our community."
6) "I knew that you were going to be a great speaker because you are from the South. You have a nice calm voice. You should look into law school and becoming a judge, because you have a naturally calming voice and disposition." - Don't know what to make of this comment, but it made me smile.
7) "You are fantastic. Do you know that?"
8) " I just want to tell you that I am here for you. If you ever need anything, call me, email me. I WILL help you."
9) "My hero!" [Then tackles me. Gives me a great big bear hug.] Me: "What did I do?" Reply: "You teach our kids. That is why you are my hero."
I typed these comments into the blog, not to flatter myself, but to show you the love and compassion I have received from my fellow Zarathushtis in the past few days.
Honestly, before coming to the Congress, I was a little frustrated and desperately needed motivation. Coming to New York and meeting all those people gives me a motivation and new drive to continue my efforts. I already tell everyone "I do this for the kids," but now I also do it for you. The members of the Zarathushti community. The ones who have shown me such unadulterated love and everyone who helps me get from one day to another. I've added a Sunday school tab to my blog where I will post our lessons, discussions, and possibly photos for everyone who wishes to follow us on our journey.
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