- Jake Gebhart
After dinner, we walked down a few doors, accompanied by Sister Anne and Sister Shelly, to the workshop of Mr. David Montana. Mr. Montana is a Mardi Gras Indian, or as he called it, a Carnival Indian. He is the head chief of the Washitaw Tribe and is in charge of all costume creation. When we arrived we were quickly directed to the beautiful suits with thousands of individually hand sewn beads and jewels. One's theme was hummingbirds, covered with hand beaded birds and lights to draw attention to the staff. My personal favorite was one focused on a buffalo that symbolized a sign of peace on the front while on the back there was a different message. It emphasized the chaos and violence that will come if the tribe is crossed. David then performed for us, teaching us a number of common Carnival Indian folk songs. These mostly consisted of calling and answering accompanied by the tambourine. His next performance really impressed and inspired me. Mr. Montana recited a poem he wrote for volunteers like us who are not connected to the city or Katrina but genuinely cared for the people of New Orleans. The poem was titled a "A Change of Heart Man" and spoke about his experience with Katrina and his thankfulness for people who helped him and helped the city rebuild after the storm. This poem truly touched me and made me realize that the citizens of New Orleans truly appreciate the work we are doing on this trip. Beginning the trip I thought our efforts would be so minimal and that we couldn't make a difference but now I realize that even our small contribution to these homes change the lives of those who live there.
-Mason Bernard
P. S. Brother Fred, I have been acknowledge as the group moral for my work force.
P. P. S I wanted to say how awesome our car rides are. They are great ways for us to let loose and for us to have fun with a different group of kids aside from the ones we work with. We sing songs, shout out the windows and just have a great time. It is something I look forward to everyday.
-Jake and Mason
Jake and Mason--Thanks for your reflections. I do look forward to reading your comments as it is a way beyond praying for you that I can join you in your service!
ReplyDeleteJake--I am glad that your group is creating community with the other workers since working together makes work easier. Your stopping every hour to remind yourselves: "lots of energy, lots of focus" is the same reason we start every class with a reminder that we are in God's presence. Both are reminders of why we do what we do!
Mason--I figured you would be a leader! Bot don't get a big head--it would make it difficult to wear one of those Mardi Gras costumes! Thanks for sharing about the poem that Mr. Montana recited. We never know the impact we have by the relationships we form or the service we perform. Remind me sometime to tell you about the snowflake or the starfish. And the car rides don't cost anything--the simple joys of life!
BFred
Proud of you folks, and keeping you in mind and prayers.
ReplyDeleteProud of you folks, and keeping you in mind and prayers.
ReplyDelete