Waking up on Long Island last Saturday morning (after 2 hours sleep), I was anxious to take in as much of my surroundings as possible. It was a beautiful morning, and since I was the first one up in the house, I had the deck and backyard to myself. Sue, Kathy & Mike's next-door neighbor who came to several of the week's shows, talked to me a bit as she was coming back from a walk to a neighborhood store. Then the rest of the house started waking up. Kerri & Gaby and I sat together over coffee, re-living some of the night before, as well as the entire week.
Kerri then took me on a quick tour of her town (including the elementary and high schools she attended) on the way to her favorite bagel place. Taking in the beauty of Long Island was a treat, and once again I was filled with gratitude for all I was able to experience on this trip. When we got back to the house the Knoxville-based part of the cast and crew was loading up for the drive home. Lots of pictures, lots of hugs, lots of words of appreciation and love, and then they were on their way.
Shortly after that, Kathy & Mike drove me to LaGuardia for my own journey home. On a side note, last Saturday afternoon at LaGuardia reminded me of a recent bit Seth Myers did on his show, when he asked what word you get when you merge the words LaGuardia Airport & Hell. The answer? Hell. I agree.
Hugs and thanks were shared with Kathy & Mike and a bit later I'm flying home. An easy flight to Nashville, quick service at the rental car counter, driving through a hellacious thunderstorm, and then I'm home.
Home.
Jeanine.
The best part of the trip.
This wasn't my first time in New York, but it was certainly my most important trip to the city. I travelled there with a group of artists with whom I share a commitment to create awareness and action on the issue of sex trafficking. It was a trip about hope and humanity, and the belief that the world truly is changed when together we decide to bring light to the darkness. We went hoping to create change in the minds of the audiences. But, I believe we were also changed, or at least what we believe has been strengthened and expanded.
I have returned with an even deeper belief that this fight is not only necessary, it is winnable. It will take a long time, longer than I likely still have on this earth. But by living with the long view, the perspective that what we do echoes forward into the lives of people who will live beyond us, by being willing to plant trees whose shade we will never sit under, we can in fact turn the tide on this crime. The more the tide turns, the harder it becomes for those who commit this crime to do so successfully.
My hope is that the cast and crew of "Princess Cut" have been encouraged that what they're doing with this play and their individual gifts is making a real difference, a life and death difference. I hope (and believe) they are going to continue to bring art that matters to audiences who will be moved to action. People will be helped through their efforts. Lives will be saved.
Together we will keep doing what we do, what has been given to us to do, what we've been called to do. Others will join us. Maybe even you. More lives will be touched, more minds changed, more hearts moved, more collaborative action created. A seemingly small movement will grow large, then massive.
And then one day...
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
New York Day 8- Wrapping up the Show
The day of the final show I took a slow morning, then headed into Manhattan in the afternoon for some shopping, taking in some more sights, and one more lunch at GMT Tavern. I fell in love with the Lower East Side on this trip, especially the Village. In my previous trips to NYC I've spent most of my time in Midtown and the Upper West and East Sides, all great parts of the city. This trip I spent more time in the Village, SoHo, NoHo, & TriBeCa than I ever had, and that's the area of the island that most appeals to me.
I had a blast standing on the street with Kristen helping hand out promotional cards for the show (it turned into a competition between the 2 of us that she narrowly won, probably by cheating), then it was show time. Although we were told that the A/C had been repaired in the theater, it wasn't any cooler than Monday's show. Large fans had been set up in the space, creating a noise challenge for the actors. But, as this cast always does, they rose to the challenge and put on another compelling performance. I was filled with so much pride for them as they took their bows, knowing how much they've each put into making "Princess Cut" a reality, sacrificing so much time and energy to bring it to the stage. To watch them being applauded on a New York stage was a wonderful gift.
We ran around the corner for the cast party, an enjoyable time full of lots of hugs and pictures. Kerri (she's the actress who plays the lead character) grew up on Long Island and her parents have been at each performance this week. They asked me during the cast party if I'd like to come out to their place to spend the night with the rest of the cast and crew. I'd never been to Long Island, so I said give me some time and I'll be there.
A quick cab ride back to Brooklyn, and even quicker time packing all my stuff, back in the cab, then to Penn Station, and then on the 11:18 on the LIRR to Manhasset. It was after midnight before I got to the Koczen's house, by which time everyone else was there and the second cast party began. The highlight of the evening was a 3am improv session put on by the cast. Hysterical and imaginative, it was great watching this group use their skills on different material (obviously made up on the spot), and having so much fun playing off of each other. Some of it included jokes that had grown from some of the events of the week, making watching it that much more enjoyable.
Even though this was all going on hours past my normal bedtime, I didn't want to miss any of it. Around 4am Kerri's mom, Kathy, brought out hotdogs and meatball subs, so we sat around the fire pit enjoying the cool night and continuing to express thanks and wonder for the week we'd just experienced together. Finally, around 4:30, I waved the white flag and told everyone goodnight. Before I dropped off to sleep I thought about what a miracle the week had been, all the gifts I'd experienced during it, the greatest of which was to be part of the wonderful community that is Yellow Rose Productions and so many of their family and friends I've been privileged to meet through this connection. I've written a lot about gratitude this week. In the early hours of that Saturday morning, I once again gave thanks for this unexpected connection, and for the privilege of being part of a group committed to changing the world.
I had a blast standing on the street with Kristen helping hand out promotional cards for the show (it turned into a competition between the 2 of us that she narrowly won, probably by cheating), then it was show time. Although we were told that the A/C had been repaired in the theater, it wasn't any cooler than Monday's show. Large fans had been set up in the space, creating a noise challenge for the actors. But, as this cast always does, they rose to the challenge and put on another compelling performance. I was filled with so much pride for them as they took their bows, knowing how much they've each put into making "Princess Cut" a reality, sacrificing so much time and energy to bring it to the stage. To watch them being applauded on a New York stage was a wonderful gift.
We ran around the corner for the cast party, an enjoyable time full of lots of hugs and pictures. Kerri (she's the actress who plays the lead character) grew up on Long Island and her parents have been at each performance this week. They asked me during the cast party if I'd like to come out to their place to spend the night with the rest of the cast and crew. I'd never been to Long Island, so I said give me some time and I'll be there.
A quick cab ride back to Brooklyn, and even quicker time packing all my stuff, back in the cab, then to Penn Station, and then on the 11:18 on the LIRR to Manhasset. It was after midnight before I got to the Koczen's house, by which time everyone else was there and the second cast party began. The highlight of the evening was a 3am improv session put on by the cast. Hysterical and imaginative, it was great watching this group use their skills on different material (obviously made up on the spot), and having so much fun playing off of each other. Some of it included jokes that had grown from some of the events of the week, making watching it that much more enjoyable.
Even though this was all going on hours past my normal bedtime, I didn't want to miss any of it. Around 4am Kerri's mom, Kathy, brought out hotdogs and meatball subs, so we sat around the fire pit enjoying the cool night and continuing to express thanks and wonder for the week we'd just experienced together. Finally, around 4:30, I waved the white flag and told everyone goodnight. Before I dropped off to sleep I thought about what a miracle the week had been, all the gifts I'd experienced during it, the greatest of which was to be part of the wonderful community that is Yellow Rose Productions and so many of their family and friends I've been privileged to meet through this connection. I've written a lot about gratitude this week. In the early hours of that Saturday morning, I once again gave thanks for this unexpected connection, and for the privilege of being part of a group committed to changing the world.
Monday, August 24, 2015
New York Day 7- Privilege and a Long Walk
Thursday, Day 7 of the New York trip, stood out for two reasons. The first one was due to the unexpected invitation we received from FBI Supervisory Special Agent Anthony Bivona (he served on the talkback panel after Monday's show) to come to tour the FBI Operations Command Center at Federal Plaza in Foley Square.
This is the Bureau's largest field office, and Anthony heads up the team that handles all trafficking-related cases, as well as various other crimes, for the New York City area. After going through the building's extensive security, we were taken upstairs to where Anthony's team operates.
Anthony first showed us a room that houses several artifacts telling the story of the FBI. From the days of Prohibition, to the Bureau's on-going fight against organized crime, to items used by Nazi and Soviet spies, to shrapnel from the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, the room was a historical treasure. The item that made the biggest impression on me, however, was a completely intact tire from one of the airplanes that crashed into the Twin Towers on Sept. 11, 2001. Except for a few scrapes, the tire was in good shape. It was recovered several blocks from Ground Zero. Amazing how a tire survives when nearly 3,000 people and hundreds of tons of steel were turned to dust.
We saw the command center where the Bureau and its partners receive up to the minute intelligence on large-scale events. Anthony then took us to the Assistant Director's conference room, where major meetings are held through video link with other law enforcement agencies, both domestically and internationally. He took some time to explain to us not only how his specific team works, but to also give us a better overall understanding of how the Bureau works. Anthony was very complimentary of how well-done the play "Princess Cut" is and how impressed he was with its depiction of the issue of trafficking. He commended us for the work we're doing to shine a light on the crime.
Before we left, we promised to remain in touch, as we are all finding that the anti-trafficking community is actually pretty small. We share many of the same issues, and each of us, whether governmental or non-governmental agencies, rely on our fellow anti-trafficking colleagues for support, encouragement, and the sharing of wisdom and best practices. I deeply appreciate Anthony's enthusiastic support of our mission in New York, and I'm confident our paths will cross again.
After lunch we went in a few different directions, but several of us decided to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. I've crossed this bridge many times in a taxi, but never on foot. What a magnificent view from one of the world's iconic bridges. It was a sunny day, and even though the bridge was crowded, it was still a great walk. The views on both sides are quite inspiring, including the one to the south, which is of the Statue of Liberty. Standing there looking at the Statue, I thought about the scores of people who came through Ellis Island and then settled on the Lower East Side, looking for a better life than the one they left behind. In so doing, they transformed their individual and family stories, ultimately transforming the story of our nation.
A walk around Brooklyn followed, then we took the subway back to Manhattan, convening once again at Schillers (their pulled pork tacos are worth walking over any bridge). I made an early night of it, but went back to the apartment once again full of gratitude and wonder. This trip brought me many gifts, some bigger than others, but all of them important. Day 7 of the trip began with a look at the complexities of the world's premier crime-fighting agency, and culminated with the simple act of taking a walk across one of New York's most beloved symbols. Quite a day, another one for which I am thankful.
This is the Bureau's largest field office, and Anthony heads up the team that handles all trafficking-related cases, as well as various other crimes, for the New York City area. After going through the building's extensive security, we were taken upstairs to where Anthony's team operates.
Anthony first showed us a room that houses several artifacts telling the story of the FBI. From the days of Prohibition, to the Bureau's on-going fight against organized crime, to items used by Nazi and Soviet spies, to shrapnel from the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, the room was a historical treasure. The item that made the biggest impression on me, however, was a completely intact tire from one of the airplanes that crashed into the Twin Towers on Sept. 11, 2001. Except for a few scrapes, the tire was in good shape. It was recovered several blocks from Ground Zero. Amazing how a tire survives when nearly 3,000 people and hundreds of tons of steel were turned to dust.
We saw the command center where the Bureau and its partners receive up to the minute intelligence on large-scale events. Anthony then took us to the Assistant Director's conference room, where major meetings are held through video link with other law enforcement agencies, both domestically and internationally. He took some time to explain to us not only how his specific team works, but to also give us a better overall understanding of how the Bureau works. Anthony was very complimentary of how well-done the play "Princess Cut" is and how impressed he was with its depiction of the issue of trafficking. He commended us for the work we're doing to shine a light on the crime.
Before we left, we promised to remain in touch, as we are all finding that the anti-trafficking community is actually pretty small. We share many of the same issues, and each of us, whether governmental or non-governmental agencies, rely on our fellow anti-trafficking colleagues for support, encouragement, and the sharing of wisdom and best practices. I deeply appreciate Anthony's enthusiastic support of our mission in New York, and I'm confident our paths will cross again.
After lunch we went in a few different directions, but several of us decided to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. I've crossed this bridge many times in a taxi, but never on foot. What a magnificent view from one of the world's iconic bridges. It was a sunny day, and even though the bridge was crowded, it was still a great walk. The views on both sides are quite inspiring, including the one to the south, which is of the Statue of Liberty. Standing there looking at the Statue, I thought about the scores of people who came through Ellis Island and then settled on the Lower East Side, looking for a better life than the one they left behind. In so doing, they transformed their individual and family stories, ultimately transforming the story of our nation.
A walk around Brooklyn followed, then we took the subway back to Manhattan, convening once again at Schillers (their pulled pork tacos are worth walking over any bridge). I made an early night of it, but went back to the apartment once again full of gratitude and wonder. This trip brought me many gifts, some bigger than others, but all of them important. Day 7 of the trip began with a look at the complexities of the world's premier crime-fighting agency, and culminated with the simple act of taking a walk across one of New York's most beloved symbols. Quite a day, another one for which I am thankful.
Friday, August 21, 2015
New York Day 6- Making The Most Of It
As I've mentioned in an earlier post, New York is experiencing its first heatwave just in time for me to be here (I hate hot weather). The A/C in the theater went out Monday, but the cast & crew performed the show anyway. As of Tuesday night the air in the theater still wasn't working, and we received word early Wednesday morning that all shows scheduled for the Lynn Redgrave Theater on Wednesday had been cancelled.
This was a big letdown for us, but obviously nothing could be done about it. The cancellation gave me a free morning, so I took advantage of it to do some work, then headed into Manhattan for the afternoon. I met up with some of the cast for lunch at Katz's Deli. I'd never been to Katz's, but I will certainly be back. A pastrami sandwich from Heaven, plus a chocolate egg cream, and I'm sold on the place. Great food, great environment. The place was packed, the walls lined with pictures of the famous people who've been to Katz's over the years. There's also a sign hanging from the ceiling pointing to the spot where Meg Ryan & Billy Crystal shot the memorable diner scene in "When Harry Met Sally."
We then took in one of the other plays that is part of the Fringe festival, a comedy. The show was well-done and we enjoyed it, but there were some elements that got me thinking in a theological vein. I'll share those thoughts in a later post after my NYC trip.
We then headed down the street to the famous Schillers bar, spending much of the evening there. After taking in more of the Lower East Side, I made my way back to the apartment well past my normal bedtime, but having enjoyed a great day in the company of great friends.
In thinking back on the day, although it was disappointing to lose one of our shows, I'm also grateful we had the opportunity to relax a bit. Whether you're in a theater company that produces a play about sex trafficking, or you work with an anti-trafficking non-profit, the issue of trafficking sometimes feels just a bit too heavy, both your body and mind wobble under the weight. Wednesday allowed us the opportunity to remember some simple joys, and experience those joys in community. I need days like this, as I have a tendency to get lost in the work and the issue.
Victims of trafficking desire to experience humanity to the fullest, a desire I believe we all share. To take a day to simply be a human being living a day of joy, fellowship, laughter, great food and drink, as well as inspiration, is not a luxury...it's a necessity, no matter what type of work you do. For me though, I know the more often I give myself this kind of day, I'm better able to serve the survivors with whom we work.
Wednesday was not the day I expected, but it was definitely the day I needed. And for that gift, and again paraphrasing what the old gentleman said to me during my walk around Brooklyn on Saturday, "Tanks be to God."
This was a big letdown for us, but obviously nothing could be done about it. The cancellation gave me a free morning, so I took advantage of it to do some work, then headed into Manhattan for the afternoon. I met up with some of the cast for lunch at Katz's Deli. I'd never been to Katz's, but I will certainly be back. A pastrami sandwich from Heaven, plus a chocolate egg cream, and I'm sold on the place. Great food, great environment. The place was packed, the walls lined with pictures of the famous people who've been to Katz's over the years. There's also a sign hanging from the ceiling pointing to the spot where Meg Ryan & Billy Crystal shot the memorable diner scene in "When Harry Met Sally."
We then took in one of the other plays that is part of the Fringe festival, a comedy. The show was well-done and we enjoyed it, but there were some elements that got me thinking in a theological vein. I'll share those thoughts in a later post after my NYC trip.
We then headed down the street to the famous Schillers bar, spending much of the evening there. After taking in more of the Lower East Side, I made my way back to the apartment well past my normal bedtime, but having enjoyed a great day in the company of great friends.
In thinking back on the day, although it was disappointing to lose one of our shows, I'm also grateful we had the opportunity to relax a bit. Whether you're in a theater company that produces a play about sex trafficking, or you work with an anti-trafficking non-profit, the issue of trafficking sometimes feels just a bit too heavy, both your body and mind wobble under the weight. Wednesday allowed us the opportunity to remember some simple joys, and experience those joys in community. I need days like this, as I have a tendency to get lost in the work and the issue.
Victims of trafficking desire to experience humanity to the fullest, a desire I believe we all share. To take a day to simply be a human being living a day of joy, fellowship, laughter, great food and drink, as well as inspiration, is not a luxury...it's a necessity, no matter what type of work you do. For me though, I know the more often I give myself this kind of day, I'm better able to serve the survivors with whom we work.
Wednesday was not the day I expected, but it was definitely the day I needed. And for that gift, and again paraphrasing what the old gentleman said to me during my walk around Brooklyn on Saturday, "Tanks be to God."
New York Day 5- I think I'll go to Boston
Tuesday was a day off for "Princess Cut," so I take full advantage of it to head to Boston and spend the day with one of my best friends, Kevin Kokx, who lives a couple hours north of there in New Hampshire.
Rob Alderman & I met Kev and Brian Hash in seminary years ago in Minnesota, and we became known as "The Irreverends," what one of our professors described as "a cohort within our cohort." We've stayed closely connected since, and take every opportunity to get together. Kev was in Tennessee with me last month, so when I found out I was coming to New York and would have this day off, I called Kev and meeting up in Beantown was on.
A consistent aspect of Kevin's and my friendship is that we have a great deal of fun while also being able to have great conversations about deeper things. Tuesday was another one of those days. As soon as he met me at South Street station, we headed to Emmets pub not far off Boston Common. Excellent choice, as their fish & chips and the Emmets Irish Ale make you glad you stopped in.
We then headed over to the Common, which was packed with people taking in the beautiful summer day. Kev and I have always made walks a part of our times together, and our walk around the Common was another one of those great times of conversation. We then took some time on a bench and spent a while talking about where we are and where we're headed in our lives. Then more walking around the Common, which led us across the street to L. J. Peretti cigar store. Peretti's is the 2nd oldest cigar store in the US, in business since 1870. For those of you who know Nat Sherman in NYC, the day Nat opened for business in 1930, Peretti's had already been operating for 60 years.
Some enjoyment was had at Peretti's, then we moved back into the Common, after which we took in a bit of the freedom trail. I've always loved Park Church right off the Common, as well as walking through Granary Cemetery next door. Reading both the names and the dates of birth and death on the tombstones always reminds me that Boston is very much the seat of our nation's history.
We came across the tombstone of Robert Trent Paine, and the inscription on the stone included the fact that he signed the Declaration of Independence. Not exactly something you run across every day. As many who know me well, I'm not someone who focuses on tradition, on making sure things stay the way they've been and are. Some may think that means I don't care about or respect history, which is not true. While the future is what interests me the most, history is important to me and I'm very respectful of the people and events who have helped shape where we find ourselves today.
Some more walking around, more conversation, and then it was time for me to head back to the train station. Only 6 hours with my buddy, but I was very grateful for even part of a day together. Looking forward to our next time together, looking forward to seeing Boston again, hopefully soon. Now back to NYC.
Rob Alderman & I met Kev and Brian Hash in seminary years ago in Minnesota, and we became known as "The Irreverends," what one of our professors described as "a cohort within our cohort." We've stayed closely connected since, and take every opportunity to get together. Kev was in Tennessee with me last month, so when I found out I was coming to New York and would have this day off, I called Kev and meeting up in Beantown was on.
A consistent aspect of Kevin's and my friendship is that we have a great deal of fun while also being able to have great conversations about deeper things. Tuesday was another one of those days. As soon as he met me at South Street station, we headed to Emmets pub not far off Boston Common. Excellent choice, as their fish & chips and the Emmets Irish Ale make you glad you stopped in.
We then headed over to the Common, which was packed with people taking in the beautiful summer day. Kev and I have always made walks a part of our times together, and our walk around the Common was another one of those great times of conversation. We then took some time on a bench and spent a while talking about where we are and where we're headed in our lives. Then more walking around the Common, which led us across the street to L. J. Peretti cigar store. Peretti's is the 2nd oldest cigar store in the US, in business since 1870. For those of you who know Nat Sherman in NYC, the day Nat opened for business in 1930, Peretti's had already been operating for 60 years.
Some enjoyment was had at Peretti's, then we moved back into the Common, after which we took in a bit of the freedom trail. I've always loved Park Church right off the Common, as well as walking through Granary Cemetery next door. Reading both the names and the dates of birth and death on the tombstones always reminds me that Boston is very much the seat of our nation's history.
We came across the tombstone of Robert Trent Paine, and the inscription on the stone included the fact that he signed the Declaration of Independence. Not exactly something you run across every day. As many who know me well, I'm not someone who focuses on tradition, on making sure things stay the way they've been and are. Some may think that means I don't care about or respect history, which is not true. While the future is what interests me the most, history is important to me and I'm very respectful of the people and events who have helped shape where we find ourselves today.
Some more walking around, more conversation, and then it was time for me to head back to the train station. Only 6 hours with my buddy, but I was very grateful for even part of a day together. Looking forward to our next time together, looking forward to seeing Boston again, hopefully soon. Now back to NYC.
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
New York Day 4- Experience and Emotion
Monday was the fullest day of the trip so far. I began the morning with the very cool opportunity to meet with members of the Manhattan DA Special Victims Bureau's Human Trafficking Response Unit. As I sat in their offices on Centre St., I was struck by how far we've come at Second Life of Chattanooga. From a very small, uncertain beginning, to sharing ideas and best practices with anti-trafficking professionals in our nation's largest city, our little org has definitely come a long way.
The meeting was very helpful, revealing that whether you're doing this work in Chattanooga or New York City, the day-in-day-out aspect of the work is much the same, both in terms of challenges and successes. I really appreciate the time that John and Jen took with me.
After the meeting I had some time on my hands, so I decided to walk over to the World Trade Center. I've not been to New York in 16 years, so the last time I was here, the Twin Towers were standing. The morning of my first trip to New York in 1984, I stood in Windows on the World at the top of the North Tower. The view was stunning. Of course, everyone who worked there on Sept. 11, 2001 didn't get out.
I've had some struggle about whether I wanted to visit the site at all. I went back and forth between my desire to pay my respects, but not wanting to contribute to sacred space becoming nothing more than a tourist attraction. Paying my respects seemed the stronger sentiment, so I walked over to the site.
Two large pools now mark the spots where the Towers stood. The names of everyone who died that die, including those who died at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, PA on flight 93, are engraved on the walls that encase the pools. I took time to read many of the names, thinking about who they were, who they left behind. Single white roses have been left at the site of many of the names.
In spite of the noise of traffic and the tourists visiting the site, I found myself feeling very quiet, even somewhat still. The site reminds me that when rage and hate collide with love and hope, love and hope always win, even if they're tattered and heart-broken. I decided at one point to not fight the tears that kept presenting themselves. It wasn't a flood, but the emotion was strong. Dear God, the least I could do in that moment and place was be vulnerable and open. It was an important time for me.
When I left the site I needed to put myself in a different head-space, so I just started walking. It's important to note that I arrived in New York last week just in time for their first heatwave of the summer, so walking around the city right now is not without its challenges. But, the day was beautiful and I love walking in cities, so off I went. The more I walked, the more I wanted to walk.
I'd never walked through TriBeCa, so I covered that on my hike (running into the actor Taye Diggs while I was there). Seeing New York at street level, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells that characterize the city is in my opinion the only way to experience it. I ended up walking all the way to Penn Station, at least 50 blocks. I was a bit tired, but felt like I'd given myself a gift.
A quick subway ride back to the apartment to clean up from my 50 block hike, then back into Manhattan for some dinner and that night's performance of "Princess Cut." I found GMT Tavern in the Village and had an excellent shepherd's pie. GMT is a neighborhood pub, literally one of those "where everyone knows your name" kind of places. I'll definitely be back there this week.
When I arrived at the theater I was told that the air conditioning was out, a big problem since it's been in the 90's every day with too much humidity. Water was handed out to the audience (our biggest audience so far) and everybody braved the elements. Of course, it was the actors and crew who were the truly brave ones, dealing with a tough environment, and doing so with passion and excellence. Our talkback following the show was outstanding, as my fellow panelists included an NYPD detective (Greg), who heads up his department's Human Trafficking Team, a Supervisory Special Agent from the FBI (Anthony), and the Training Coordinator (Grace) for DayOne, a New York non-profit serving survivors of trafficking.
The interaction between the panel and the audience may have been the best we've had in all of the shows we've done since the play premiered in Knoxville last year. In spite of the far-too-hot room, the talkback was energizing for everyone there. Grace, Greg, and Anthony even talked about how though they're professionals who work on this issue every day, regularly seeing things that can be very disturbing, the play was tough for them to watch, and that the story deeply impacted them. Once again, I am grateful for the favor continually shown Yellow Rose Productions and Second Life of Chattanooga concerning this very important play.
A full, long, gratifying day. I rode the train home that night once again full of gratitude and thankfulness. Tomorrow, Boston.
The meeting was very helpful, revealing that whether you're doing this work in Chattanooga or New York City, the day-in-day-out aspect of the work is much the same, both in terms of challenges and successes. I really appreciate the time that John and Jen took with me.
After the meeting I had some time on my hands, so I decided to walk over to the World Trade Center. I've not been to New York in 16 years, so the last time I was here, the Twin Towers were standing. The morning of my first trip to New York in 1984, I stood in Windows on the World at the top of the North Tower. The view was stunning. Of course, everyone who worked there on Sept. 11, 2001 didn't get out.
I've had some struggle about whether I wanted to visit the site at all. I went back and forth between my desire to pay my respects, but not wanting to contribute to sacred space becoming nothing more than a tourist attraction. Paying my respects seemed the stronger sentiment, so I walked over to the site.
Two large pools now mark the spots where the Towers stood. The names of everyone who died that die, including those who died at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, PA on flight 93, are engraved on the walls that encase the pools. I took time to read many of the names, thinking about who they were, who they left behind. Single white roses have been left at the site of many of the names.
In spite of the noise of traffic and the tourists visiting the site, I found myself feeling very quiet, even somewhat still. The site reminds me that when rage and hate collide with love and hope, love and hope always win, even if they're tattered and heart-broken. I decided at one point to not fight the tears that kept presenting themselves. It wasn't a flood, but the emotion was strong. Dear God, the least I could do in that moment and place was be vulnerable and open. It was an important time for me.
When I left the site I needed to put myself in a different head-space, so I just started walking. It's important to note that I arrived in New York last week just in time for their first heatwave of the summer, so walking around the city right now is not without its challenges. But, the day was beautiful and I love walking in cities, so off I went. The more I walked, the more I wanted to walk.
I'd never walked through TriBeCa, so I covered that on my hike (running into the actor Taye Diggs while I was there). Seeing New York at street level, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells that characterize the city is in my opinion the only way to experience it. I ended up walking all the way to Penn Station, at least 50 blocks. I was a bit tired, but felt like I'd given myself a gift.
A quick subway ride back to the apartment to clean up from my 50 block hike, then back into Manhattan for some dinner and that night's performance of "Princess Cut." I found GMT Tavern in the Village and had an excellent shepherd's pie. GMT is a neighborhood pub, literally one of those "where everyone knows your name" kind of places. I'll definitely be back there this week.
When I arrived at the theater I was told that the air conditioning was out, a big problem since it's been in the 90's every day with too much humidity. Water was handed out to the audience (our biggest audience so far) and everybody braved the elements. Of course, it was the actors and crew who were the truly brave ones, dealing with a tough environment, and doing so with passion and excellence. Our talkback following the show was outstanding, as my fellow panelists included an NYPD detective (Greg), who heads up his department's Human Trafficking Team, a Supervisory Special Agent from the FBI (Anthony), and the Training Coordinator (Grace) for DayOne, a New York non-profit serving survivors of trafficking.
The interaction between the panel and the audience may have been the best we've had in all of the shows we've done since the play premiered in Knoxville last year. In spite of the far-too-hot room, the talkback was energizing for everyone there. Grace, Greg, and Anthony even talked about how though they're professionals who work on this issue every day, regularly seeing things that can be very disturbing, the play was tough for them to watch, and that the story deeply impacted them. Once again, I am grateful for the favor continually shown Yellow Rose Productions and Second Life of Chattanooga concerning this very important play.
A full, long, gratifying day. I rode the train home that night once again full of gratitude and thankfulness. Tomorrow, Boston.
Monday, August 17, 2015
New York Day 3- Conspiracy of Hope
One of the great things about this trip is that I'm getting to cover many parts of the city, either for work or because I have enough free time to explore. Sunday was another such day, as Brooklyn, the Upper West Side, Midtown, Soho, and the West Village were all places where I was able to spend time.
The Upper West Side portion of the day was brunch at SaraBeth's with long-time friends Laura and Hugh Hale. Although I've gotten to see them frequently over the years when we all lived in the same town, it was extra special spending time with them here, as New York is now their home. By the way, the salmon eggs benedict at SaraBeth's is worth the trip. Great conversation with the Hales, and I appreciate their hospitality.
Next stop was Nat Sherman for some alone time and enjoyment of their fine establishment and products, followed by a brief adventure on the subway, where I got on the wrong train and instead of ending up on Bleecker St, I found myself in Queens. A quick jump back on the train and I made it to the theater with a few minutes to spare.
Sunday's show was the second performance of "Princess Cut" during the festival. This one had a unique feel to it from the beginning. Between a stifling hot theater, to someone deciding to walk into the theater, go behind the curtain, and start yacking on his phone right after the show began, I wondered how the cast and crew would deal with less than ideal circumstances.
The challenges made their performance that much more powerful. We talked afterwards about a shared sense of emotion, maybe even heaviness, that was present from the outset of the show. They felt it as actors, and I felt it as a member of the audience who is very familiar with the production. This deep sense of emotion carried over into the talkback session that I led afterwards. We had great questions and observations from both audience members and members of the cast. In fact, I think of all the times we've done this show, yesterday was the first time the cast was able to play a significant role in the talkback time. I'm planning on making this a regular part of all future post-show Q & A sessions.
As the talkback continued, tears showed up for at least a few of those there. The weight of the issue portrayed in the play, discussing what it means for all of us as members of our larger society, as well as our personal and shared responsibilities to turn the tide of trafficking in our communities, pressed down on all of us, causing some to need to emotionalize the weight. I felt the same weight, the same emotion.
I have come to New York desiring to reconnect with a city I deeply love, taking in all that I can of its variety and richness. But most of all, I have come here to work, to be part of what "Princess Cut" is designed to do...create thinking that leads to action on the issue of sex trafficking. It is work I am honored to do, it is work I am called to do. So may the weight and its accompanying emotion continue to show up for me and all of us who feel that calling. But, may we also feel the comfort of those beside us who know that same weight and emotion, knowing that we do this work together, that we are not alone.
And together, we can begin to relieve the weight on those whom this crime has directly and cruelly affected. None of us alone can move the needle on this issue, but together, truly together, with a willingness to take the long view and walk the long road, we cannot only move the needle, we can turn the tide, creating momentum that eventually ends the tragedy of trafficking.
Of course, the only thing that can stop us from doing this is choosing to believe that we can't. And if we choose that, shame on us. Truly, shame on us. But, I believe we can and will choose better, choose light over darkness, life over death, others over our own comfort. And we choose to do this together.
We are a conspiracy of hope.
The Upper West Side portion of the day was brunch at SaraBeth's with long-time friends Laura and Hugh Hale. Although I've gotten to see them frequently over the years when we all lived in the same town, it was extra special spending time with them here, as New York is now their home. By the way, the salmon eggs benedict at SaraBeth's is worth the trip. Great conversation with the Hales, and I appreciate their hospitality.
Next stop was Nat Sherman for some alone time and enjoyment of their fine establishment and products, followed by a brief adventure on the subway, where I got on the wrong train and instead of ending up on Bleecker St, I found myself in Queens. A quick jump back on the train and I made it to the theater with a few minutes to spare.
Sunday's show was the second performance of "Princess Cut" during the festival. This one had a unique feel to it from the beginning. Between a stifling hot theater, to someone deciding to walk into the theater, go behind the curtain, and start yacking on his phone right after the show began, I wondered how the cast and crew would deal with less than ideal circumstances.
The challenges made their performance that much more powerful. We talked afterwards about a shared sense of emotion, maybe even heaviness, that was present from the outset of the show. They felt it as actors, and I felt it as a member of the audience who is very familiar with the production. This deep sense of emotion carried over into the talkback session that I led afterwards. We had great questions and observations from both audience members and members of the cast. In fact, I think of all the times we've done this show, yesterday was the first time the cast was able to play a significant role in the talkback time. I'm planning on making this a regular part of all future post-show Q & A sessions.
As the talkback continued, tears showed up for at least a few of those there. The weight of the issue portrayed in the play, discussing what it means for all of us as members of our larger society, as well as our personal and shared responsibilities to turn the tide of trafficking in our communities, pressed down on all of us, causing some to need to emotionalize the weight. I felt the same weight, the same emotion.
I have come to New York desiring to reconnect with a city I deeply love, taking in all that I can of its variety and richness. But most of all, I have come here to work, to be part of what "Princess Cut" is designed to do...create thinking that leads to action on the issue of sex trafficking. It is work I am honored to do, it is work I am called to do. So may the weight and its accompanying emotion continue to show up for me and all of us who feel that calling. But, may we also feel the comfort of those beside us who know that same weight and emotion, knowing that we do this work together, that we are not alone.
And together, we can begin to relieve the weight on those whom this crime has directly and cruelly affected. None of us alone can move the needle on this issue, but together, truly together, with a willingness to take the long view and walk the long road, we cannot only move the needle, we can turn the tide, creating momentum that eventually ends the tragedy of trafficking.
Of course, the only thing that can stop us from doing this is choosing to believe that we can't. And if we choose that, shame on us. Truly, shame on us. But, I believe we can and will choose better, choose light over darkness, life over death, others over our own comfort. And we choose to do this together.
We are a conspiracy of hope.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
New York Day 2- Thanksgiving
Saturday in New York can provide all the energy or relaxation you choose to have. Mine was a bit of both. The bulk of the day was spent in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, which is where I'm staying this week.
Shortly after waking I realized I was feeling something that ended up permeating the day: gratitude. Throughout the morning I had this strong sense that I was deeply thankful for this particular day, and for life itself. It was more than the fact that I should be grateful, but instead a desire to be fully engaged in gratitude and thankfulness.
I spent part of the morning working, then found a grocery store nearby so I could stock my kitchen with a few things. Then it was time for lunch. Whenever I travel I insist on eating at local places, and right around the corner from my apartment is Peaches, a great mashup of soul food and Cajun, with live music to boot. My next-door-neighbor and the bartender both suggested the shrimp po boy and they were right on target.
After lunch I began walking around this neighborhood of brownstones and every kind of shop you can imagine. Street fairs were happening on several blocks, and people were out enjoying the hot, but beautiful day. I planned to walk around the general area of my neighborhood and then head into Manhattan, but the more I walked, the more I wanted to walk.
Although I lost count, a conservative estimate is that I walked at least 60 blocks discovering all that I could in Bed-Stuy. Even better than that, I met so many people who were warm and welcoming, proud of their neighborhoods, and glad that I was here with them enjoying the beauty and diversity of this part of Gotham City. Some of them even stopped me on the street to ask me how I was doing, or remark on the beauty of the day. At Jefferson & Garber stands a beautiful building that used to house an armory, and is now a men's shelter. Two guys were standing in front of it, so I stopped to ask them about the building. They were both named Mike, both in their 50's, and both lifelong residents of the neighborhood.
Mike & Mike welcomed me warmly to their neighborhood, as well as gave me advice on what else I should check out in Brooklyn. The Mike's definitely love Brooklyn. It's God's acreage for them.
A lot of folks were sitting on the stoops of their buildings or in the small courtyards present in so many of the brownstones here. One such person turned out to confirm my sense of gratitude as I walked through his neighborhood. This older gentleman said hello to me, and then in a somewhat halting way he said, "Tank (not thank) God for another day. You know buy (boy), tank God for another day!"
First of all, as a 55-year-old, anytime somebody wants to refer to me as a boy, they're alright with me. But far more than that, this elderly sage/seer sitting on a stoop in Brooklyn let me know that gratitude was clearly the theme of the day.
Later in the evening I headed into Manhattan and had some great Italian food at a midtown place with some of my Yellow Rose friends. After that, I did a walkabout in midtown checking out places I haven't visited in years. The night was clear and the buildings had an extra gleam to them. Grand Central Station was packed with people and energy. I noticed a lot of laughter, even a sense of celebration in the place.
6th Ave. was getting cleaned up after an all-day street fair, also packed full of people taking in the life and energy of this amazing city. A lot of families packed the street, one generation sharing with another generation (or more) the distinct experience that is New York.
Energy, beauty, the stranger being warmly welcomed, these were large parts of my Saturday in the city. But, they all were experienced under the larger theme of gratitude, of thanksgiving. For all of this, and to paraphrase both the liturgy and the prophet sitting on his stoop in Bed-Stuy, "Tanks be to God."
Shortly after waking I realized I was feeling something that ended up permeating the day: gratitude. Throughout the morning I had this strong sense that I was deeply thankful for this particular day, and for life itself. It was more than the fact that I should be grateful, but instead a desire to be fully engaged in gratitude and thankfulness.
I spent part of the morning working, then found a grocery store nearby so I could stock my kitchen with a few things. Then it was time for lunch. Whenever I travel I insist on eating at local places, and right around the corner from my apartment is Peaches, a great mashup of soul food and Cajun, with live music to boot. My next-door-neighbor and the bartender both suggested the shrimp po boy and they were right on target.
After lunch I began walking around this neighborhood of brownstones and every kind of shop you can imagine. Street fairs were happening on several blocks, and people were out enjoying the hot, but beautiful day. I planned to walk around the general area of my neighborhood and then head into Manhattan, but the more I walked, the more I wanted to walk.
Although I lost count, a conservative estimate is that I walked at least 60 blocks discovering all that I could in Bed-Stuy. Even better than that, I met so many people who were warm and welcoming, proud of their neighborhoods, and glad that I was here with them enjoying the beauty and diversity of this part of Gotham City. Some of them even stopped me on the street to ask me how I was doing, or remark on the beauty of the day. At Jefferson & Garber stands a beautiful building that used to house an armory, and is now a men's shelter. Two guys were standing in front of it, so I stopped to ask them about the building. They were both named Mike, both in their 50's, and both lifelong residents of the neighborhood.
Mike & Mike welcomed me warmly to their neighborhood, as well as gave me advice on what else I should check out in Brooklyn. The Mike's definitely love Brooklyn. It's God's acreage for them.
A lot of folks were sitting on the stoops of their buildings or in the small courtyards present in so many of the brownstones here. One such person turned out to confirm my sense of gratitude as I walked through his neighborhood. This older gentleman said hello to me, and then in a somewhat halting way he said, "Tank (not thank) God for another day. You know buy (boy), tank God for another day!"
First of all, as a 55-year-old, anytime somebody wants to refer to me as a boy, they're alright with me. But far more than that, this elderly sage/seer sitting on a stoop in Brooklyn let me know that gratitude was clearly the theme of the day.
Later in the evening I headed into Manhattan and had some great Italian food at a midtown place with some of my Yellow Rose friends. After that, I did a walkabout in midtown checking out places I haven't visited in years. The night was clear and the buildings had an extra gleam to them. Grand Central Station was packed with people and energy. I noticed a lot of laughter, even a sense of celebration in the place.
6th Ave. was getting cleaned up after an all-day street fair, also packed full of people taking in the life and energy of this amazing city. A lot of families packed the street, one generation sharing with another generation (or more) the distinct experience that is New York.
Energy, beauty, the stranger being warmly welcomed, these were large parts of my Saturday in the city. But, they all were experienced under the larger theme of gratitude, of thanksgiving. For all of this, and to paraphrase both the liturgy and the prophet sitting on his stoop in Bed-Stuy, "Tanks be to God."
Saturday, August 15, 2015
New York Day 1
Getting off the plane at Laguardia, I was immediately reminded of one of the miracles of New York City: a lot of people do life in a very small space at a very fast pace. Many people who don't live here complain about the tight spaces and mass of people, but I'm not one of them. I'm always looking for signs of life that are bigger than most of us tend to want to make it. New York City certainly offers you those signs, as well as plenty else.
I'm staying in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn (my first experience with Air BnB, so far, so good), and being here reminds me of how great the neighborhoods are in this city. In the midst of 8 million other people, folks here take care of their small lawns and gardens, talk to their neighbors, have sidewalk sales (the next door neighbors are setting one up right now). Life. Together. What a concept.
Before meeting my travel mates for dinner, I had some time to wander around the West Village and Soho on Manhattan's lower east side. This is such a vibrant, diverse part of the city, very energizing. Dinner at Siggy's was excellent.
We did the opening performance of "Princess Cut" last night at the Lynn Redgrave Theater, our home for the week. If you're not aware, I'm in NYC with the cast and crew of "Princess Cut" for the Fringe Theater Festival. "Princess" was picked out of some 2,000 submissions as one of the 185 plays to be performed during the festival. The play is based on the true story of a Knoxville-area sex trafficking survivor, and is produced by Yellow Rose Productions (check them out at their Facebook page, as well as yellowroseproductions.org). My connection to the play is that since it's premiere last year in Knoxville, the Yellow Rose team has asked me to lead a discussion panel on the subject of trafficking following each performance. We've done several of these shows in Greater Knoxville and Nashville, and now for the next week we're literally one block off Broadway.
One of the things I appreciate about the cast and producers of the play is that they continue to work on the production, and every performance I notice subtle changes, each time for the better. This is a powerful story, unsettling for those who see it, whether it's their first time or tenth time. Last night's performance was unique in that the normal set that would be used for the play couldn't be used due to how quickly one play finishes and another one has to get set up for the next company to perform. This led to the "Princess" cast working with a very bare-bones stage. I know they were concerned about how this would effect the production.
I think they all came away from last night's show knowing they didn't have to worry about impact. The stripped down stage accentuated the power of the story, making it even more raw and personal. You could tell the audience was engaged and effected. I heard some groans and sniffles during the show, and saw tears afterwards. Of course, the action taken after the groans, sniffles, and tears is what matters most.
The after party was a celebration and time to express relief that the first show was done. Even though I'm 2-3 decades older than everyone in the cast and crew, they are great about including me in these celebratory times. Last night's party was made all the better by the fact that many friends and family of the cast and crew were here, including a surprise appearance by some family who came all the way from Iowa for the premiere. It's always a gift to witness golden moments like those.
Day 1 of my New York story was indeed full. The word that keeps resonating in me as a result of the day is community. I both witnessed and participated in it in various forms. Big city. Big life.
I'm staying in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn (my first experience with Air BnB, so far, so good), and being here reminds me of how great the neighborhoods are in this city. In the midst of 8 million other people, folks here take care of their small lawns and gardens, talk to their neighbors, have sidewalk sales (the next door neighbors are setting one up right now). Life. Together. What a concept.
Before meeting my travel mates for dinner, I had some time to wander around the West Village and Soho on Manhattan's lower east side. This is such a vibrant, diverse part of the city, very energizing. Dinner at Siggy's was excellent.
We did the opening performance of "Princess Cut" last night at the Lynn Redgrave Theater, our home for the week. If you're not aware, I'm in NYC with the cast and crew of "Princess Cut" for the Fringe Theater Festival. "Princess" was picked out of some 2,000 submissions as one of the 185 plays to be performed during the festival. The play is based on the true story of a Knoxville-area sex trafficking survivor, and is produced by Yellow Rose Productions (check them out at their Facebook page, as well as yellowroseproductions.org). My connection to the play is that since it's premiere last year in Knoxville, the Yellow Rose team has asked me to lead a discussion panel on the subject of trafficking following each performance. We've done several of these shows in Greater Knoxville and Nashville, and now for the next week we're literally one block off Broadway.
One of the things I appreciate about the cast and producers of the play is that they continue to work on the production, and every performance I notice subtle changes, each time for the better. This is a powerful story, unsettling for those who see it, whether it's their first time or tenth time. Last night's performance was unique in that the normal set that would be used for the play couldn't be used due to how quickly one play finishes and another one has to get set up for the next company to perform. This led to the "Princess" cast working with a very bare-bones stage. I know they were concerned about how this would effect the production.
I think they all came away from last night's show knowing they didn't have to worry about impact. The stripped down stage accentuated the power of the story, making it even more raw and personal. You could tell the audience was engaged and effected. I heard some groans and sniffles during the show, and saw tears afterwards. Of course, the action taken after the groans, sniffles, and tears is what matters most.
The after party was a celebration and time to express relief that the first show was done. Even though I'm 2-3 decades older than everyone in the cast and crew, they are great about including me in these celebratory times. Last night's party was made all the better by the fact that many friends and family of the cast and crew were here, including a surprise appearance by some family who came all the way from Iowa for the premiere. It's always a gift to witness golden moments like those.
Day 1 of my New York story was indeed full. The word that keeps resonating in me as a result of the day is community. I both witnessed and participated in it in various forms. Big city. Big life.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
New York (and Boston) state of mind
This Friday I'm headed to New York City with our great friends at Yellow Rose Productions. Yellow Rose's original play, "Princess Cut," a true story of a Knoxville-area sex trafficking survivor, is being performed at the Fringe Theater Festival on the lower east side of Manhattan. Each show is followed by a panel discussion that I lead, and we'll be doing 5 performances between Fri. night the 14th and Friday the 21st. Please visit yellowroseproductions.org or the Yellow Rose Facebook page for performance times and location.
I've been privileged to lead the panel for every performance of the play to date, so it's a special honor to be asked by Danielle, Kerri, and the rest of the Yellow Rose team to be part of this special week in New York. I'll be blogging daily while on the trip, covering each performance, as well as the other Second Life of Chattanooga-related meetings I'm involved in while in the city. Plus, I'll be writing about what it's like being back in my favorite city on the planet after not visiting there in quite some time.
I'll also be taking a day in Boston with my great friend Kevin Kokx, so that will be covered as well. I do love me some Beantown.
Hopefully decent pictures will also be a result of the trip, but I make no promises.
I hope you'll enjoy the posts. Please feel free to add your own New York (or Boston) stories to the comments.
I've been privileged to lead the panel for every performance of the play to date, so it's a special honor to be asked by Danielle, Kerri, and the rest of the Yellow Rose team to be part of this special week in New York. I'll be blogging daily while on the trip, covering each performance, as well as the other Second Life of Chattanooga-related meetings I'm involved in while in the city. Plus, I'll be writing about what it's like being back in my favorite city on the planet after not visiting there in quite some time.
I'll also be taking a day in Boston with my great friend Kevin Kokx, so that will be covered as well. I do love me some Beantown.
Hopefully decent pictures will also be a result of the trip, but I make no promises.
I hope you'll enjoy the posts. Please feel free to add your own New York (or Boston) stories to the comments.
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