For our second gathering the Vibe descended into the murky realm of philosophers and dwelt in a question spoken long ago by infamous lips: what is truth?  The conclusion for many of us: how in the world do we know?”

Perhaps not wrestling with such a question is the real problem, even if we open many more question-filled chambers the further we explore. This past Thursday, it seemed to me that the point is the journey and what amazing journeys we shared! Christina honored us all in her opening piece “Vibe” (see here). She’s right that it is our willingness to open up to the possibility of our combined light that creates the Vibe and makes what we’re doing valuable.

 The Founding came to share their road again this week. Among their group are some of the most interesting and gritty stories, so you might want to make an effort to connect with some of these people. If you would like to hear more about where they are coming from, talk to Sal (sal [at] comevibewithus.com) about how you can volunteer with him at this residential program. They added to the strong theme of redemption: of truth turning around troubled and self-destructive lives.

 Kathleen and Sharlene read pieces specifically relating to complexities of the journey from a feminine perspective. In rhythm and rhyme Sal, Divine, Alex, and Ricochet rocked how lives bent on destruction can be molded to the straight and narrow through the fires of adversity and on the anvil experience. Don Baker in rap and Rasta widened the scope to social issues. He was joined by a pressing verse against the mythology of the Man by Just Words and a touchstone call to all Stigma Busters from Jack [see plug].

 Pia, Jen, Alissa, Lauren, Andrew, Jennifer, Jeremiah, Victoria, and Ben took the inward roads, sharing with us how living in general and relationships in particular cast truth in both light and shadow. Like Victoria said, she doesn’t know about truth, but she knows about pain. Often, it is in deficit that we see clearly, as also expressed in Just Words narrative of near-death to rebellious, willful life.

Someone said to me on the way out, When I think about all the talent in the room tonight, They finished their sentence by shaking their head in disbelief. All I can say is “Dito.” Thanks for sharing your light, and I look forward to seeing you on April 5!