STEPH DEROSA: SEEDS OF COMPASSION >>>

A lesson in compassion and understanding it’s relevance in today’s communities was the object of my attention last night.

Dead center and four rows up from the floor at KeyArena, my husband and I sat for five hours to witness the beginning of a weekend-long Seeds of Compassion event.  The monumental affair last night began with a conversation between Dateline NBC host Ann Curry, musician Dave Matthews, and Tibet’s exiled religious leader Dalai Lama.  For some reason when I rattle those names off I feel like I’m saying, “A conversation between The Pope, The Queen of England and Mickey Mouse.”  It just doesn’t seem right, does it?

Well, it went about as well as it could have, which was pretty darn good in my book.

Dave Matthews began the dialogue, discussing how music is an escape for him, and he often witnesses his audience getting into the music and escaping.  Music to him feels good to his heart.  He then proceeded to ask the Dalai Lama what his thoughts were on how music correlates with compassion.

Before I tell you what the Dalai Lama said, and so you can understand what the rest of the conversation was like last night, let me tell you with this: Although he could speak English, he had an interpreter. This was because although he understood the words, it was hard for him to understand the context.  The interpreter seemed to tell him what the point of the question was.  So for the most part, here are the main words I heard the Dalai Lama use in every answer:

• Sensory (ears, eyes, etc.)
• Understanding
• People
• Compassion

Now as for what the Dalai Lama’s answer was? It’s hard to say.

I found it very difficult putting together the meaning of his words. He was searching for the right words, and I think most people in the audience were searching for the right meaning of his words. His answer to Dave Matthews’ question is definitely something I need to re-watch to grasp the outcome. 

Ann Curry was her usual professional journalistic self.  There was the typical forced look of compassion on her face as she leaned in to ask questions and hear responses.

The Dalai Lama did point out that the media could really effect how society handles compassion.  Sometimes the reporting style of the story can be biased, he noted.  He made a point of saying: If the media reports the facts, and the truth, only then can people truly judge. 

At the end of the conversation (which lasted about 45 minutes, I think), The Dalai Lama made another very excellent point.

In a very choppy way he pointed out that from the beginning, everyone worked together.  A long time ago, when there was nothing but food to harvest and cook, everyone worked together.  Eventually there needed to be a leader.  Men were naturally the strongest, so they set the standard for what would become the main prerequisite into a leadership role: A strong man.  Strong enough, and filled with bravado, these men often reacted with anger â€" thus beginning and fighting in many wars.

As for women, their natural roles are often that of nurses, teachers, and moms.  They thrive in these environments because they have compassion.

The Dalai Lama then stated his main point: He said that it is now time for a woman leader.  (The crowd goes wild at this point.)

Dave Matthews then reminded me of a word I really like, and that I need to start using more in my everyday vocabulary: Machismo.  Say it.  It’s fun.  Macheeeesmo.

Marty Reimer from 103.7 The Mountain was the emcee for the evening.  He came out to address us, and told us we had an hour before surprise guest Death Cab For Cutie would come out and play an acoustic set.  I got so excited!  This is unfortunate because I was extremely disappointed once I saw Death Cab’s performance.

They are talented artists, don’t get me wrong, but after seeing them live, I simply do not like this band.  As some of you might already know, my main tell-all of a band is how good they are live.  Although very congenial and witty, they sound like a typical radio band. Booooring.  The only reason “Soul Meets Body” fared well in the ratings was because Ben Gibbard actually put some range in his voice.  This guy was almost as bad vocally as John Mayer.  Bash away people, but that’s my two cents.

Finally Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds took the stage and put on yet another fantastic show.  Tim Reynolds if by far one of the most talented guitarists on this planet, and Dave Matthews fills the songs with meaningful lyrics and a thriving passion for what he does.

It was a fantastic night for the packed KeyArena, and my husband and I had a great time letting compassion into our hearts. 

I would like to personally thank the two college-aged D-bag boys behind me last night for testing me in my ability to show compassion.  Thank you for moving your hat backwards, conch necklace, and popped collar striped-shirt-wearing-self to another row.  I thankfully had enough compassion and patience to not turn around and punch you before you made your life saving move away from me.