Passing on more than traditions

 
As we were doing the dishes after a meal at Folklore Village over the weekend, a participant and I were discussing a college course she was enrolled in. She mentioned that the 80+ year old teacher was left to rearrange the tables after each class, as everyone else in the room just up and left. She offered to help when she realized this, and the instructor was surprised by the offer. My friend then divulged that she had learned to help with this sort of thing at Folklore Village, because that’s just what you do here.  This was an eye opener for me.
 
It’s easy for me to get caught up in the details of the event planning here. I focus on the authenticity of the tradition and its instruction, ensuring smooth transitions between program elements, working sound system, providing the materials, etc. I want to ensure that you are learning everything possible from the instructors and having the best time you can. What I sometimes forget is how much people are learning by just being together in this space– and how incredibly important those lessons are.  
 
You know that old adage “the whole is greater than the sum of the individual parts”? Ahhh, how true this is when you are at Folklore Village.  And how good it is for me to be reminded that the amazing things that happen at Folklore Village are because of  what everyone brings here. It is not simply because we present wonderful artists and opportunities, but it is because of what you bring with you when you are here. And what you share. You are the ones who pass it on. And passing it on is what Folklore Village is all about. I thank you for doing more than just passing on the traditions we present, but passing on the love and care that you have brought with you to this place and have walked out the door feeling. In writing this I am reminded of a small phrase I have pinned above my desk:  "We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other. To meet, to love, to share. It is a precious moment, but it is transient. If we share with caring, lightheartedness, and love, we will create abundance and joy for each other, and this moment will have been worthwhile." - Deepak Chopra. 
 
So now I’m asking you to share what you have learned! We'd love to know what have you learned here that has stuck with you, that you have passed on, that has affected your life, etc.
 
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