Cathartic

Need to experience acceptance? Affirmation and encouragement? Professionalism, discipline, team effort? Then welcome to meet our choir!

This and much more was present in our choir practice on Thursday. I had been asked to help out as deputy conductor. Despite major fear and trembling, I decided to face the challenge. Luckily so, as it ended up as one of the most healing and affirming experiences for ages. My zillion mistakes and other insecurity did not damage the practice! On the contrary - these skilled & disciplined people only concentrated harder and practised the kind of self-leadership that would make any CEOs absolutely jealous. Suddenly I had a French language consultant to polish our pronunciation of Bizet's music, a prima vista correpetitor for the three brand-new arrangements, and a number of experienced singers who would advise the younger members of agreed nuances and other conventions.

My whole being enjoyed the 3-hour practice. "Your commitment and inspiration were contagious", commented one of the alts.

Mahnmal and more

The Holocaust-Mahnmal (Memorial to the murdered jews of Europe) near Brandenburger Tor was just one of the many new sights during this past weekend in Berlin.

The Mahnmal has created controversy as well. To me, it was a was a strong experience and I'm glad we took the time. Yes, one can easily feel lost there. And the increasing height of the heavy concrete blocks can be very impressive as well, reminding one of separation and agony.

There would be many other, more joyful accounts of the trip. But I chose this one (partly because of the picture) and, for now, feel too tired to expand, having just arrived. I need to acclimatise!