The social interaction is one of the things I look forward to in Berlin. If it could be intentionally factored in, it would be wonderful. Say, for example, an evening [or even afternoon] of dancing to Leonard's music, where there really
is a "far side of the gym." There are many songs of Leonard's that are very danceable, fast or slow. Dancing with someone, dancing 'alone' ~ who cares. Sitting on the sidelines, mingling and talking with each other, if or when we don't care to dance. A scheduled time where meeting and interacting with others is the whole of the agenda. I'd love that scene
.
A spontaneous, in-the-aisle dancing to one of Leonard's songs sprung up at the International House, and it was wonderful
. I distinctly remember Lizzie Madder
being there, as we all danced alone, yet together. A chance for us to release our heightened energy, through movement, to sounds we love.
My schedule was all about making it from one point to another, by a particular time, which put me pretty literally 'on the run' the entire time. Meals were no exception. It was frustrating knowing there were people there, from here, whom I wanted to meet and talk with. Yet, that time never really presented itself, except in brief snippets, for me. On the 'run' with Andrea ~ as we were on Evelyn's walking tour ~ gave us a chance to talk briefly about my dream [way back] about coming to Italy, and how it will one day come true. It was so gratifying to finally meet her
.
Yet, the crossing of a street, the turn of a corner, moving left or right to avoid running into someone, easily brought another person into proximity. Brief comments made or overheard brought new snippets of conversation. We still were on a deadline of getting to the Village on time for the Scavenger Hunt, had to keep up the pace, stay with the group, and be in place for the next thing being pointed out and explained.
Whilst walking fast, I had the chance to talk with John Bergeron about how his group came together.....and had to confess that I didn't know of him or his music until I joined the Forum, and the Event began to take form. He later gave me two of his CDs, so now once I listen, I'll be able to legitimately speak with regard to my own opinion. He said, "good
or bad, I'd like to hear it." His openness and non-ego were refreshing. His youngest member [17] ~ unmistakably the 'tiny' one on the right wearing platforms ~ apparently has a magnificent voice that doesn't get showcased by her backup role in Leonard's songs. He compared her to a potential Celine Dion. However, she's growing into Leonard's music, as she has begun to 'get it' with various songs and to appreciate Leonard as we do. Ah, the life ahead for this singer
.
His 'front' angel has magnificent presence. With the smooth, perfect skin, lovely features, and softness of youth; long, straight, and shining 'blonde'ish hair; wearing long, simply-styled, sleeveless, black dress; in classical stance, she stands with her arms hanging straight down at her sides, looks straight ahead and, motionless and regal, sings perfectly, with rounded, beautiful tones. It's as though watching Venus in life form.
I can't recall his third singer [on the left] as well, or what he said about her [those on-the- run conversations as one negotiates the city streets, the stairs up and down at the subways, and the turnstiles into and out of them, the bumping into or near-missing of people hurrying the same or opposite direction, and oh yes ~ the
group ~ are they going left or right!?!] except that she was still different from the other two. My view of her was more limited, but as I recall, her hair was shorter and her style pizazz-y.
St. Patrick's Cathedral ~ and Catherine in brass depiction on the door ~ glorious! We saw it; we had a group photo taken on the steps, the cathedral doors behind us. The videotape and 'mock' interview ~ by Ron, the journalist from Holland [as I silently pray, "please let the sound not be working on that camera"] ~ as we're 'people on the street' asked about the time we're having ~ truly what zany fun, all of it!
Many, many images ~ a kaleidoscope of them ~ vignettes and cameos ~ dance through my mind in no order whatsoever. Words come for giving them form, but then they pass before I'm at a keyboard, or even have time with a journal. I need a day of just me and writing to [ideally] get it all down. I don't see that happening. I hope to record what I can. Memories.
~ Lizzytysh