Guestbook

Comment from diet coffee | Pakistan
Posted on 5:14PM on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 Pacific Time
Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the story. I cant believe youre not more popular because you definitely have the gift.

Comment from Loan Media | Mali
Posted in response to the story on this page on 8:39PM on Friday, August 20, 2010 Pacific Time
This is probably the most amazing blogs Ive go through in a quite prolonged time. The amount of info in here is amazing, like you practically wrote the book around the subject matter. Your weblog is great for any individual who desires to comprehend this subject much more. Great things; please maintain it up!

Comment from Arthur | Sacramento, CA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 12:23PM on Saturday, July 24, 2010 Pacific Time
I was sitting at the center of a passage tomb in Ireland. The guide commented that the chamber had a "cruciform" shape. WHAT! While I was shocked by his incredible blindness (Christian brainwashing - this tomb was built in 3000 BCE!), it didn't phase my soul's deep realization that I was home. Not just because I knew I was sitting in a representation of our Mother Earth's womb, but because I felt connected to the insight of the people that built it as one would feel connected to his family. It bothers me that Christianity tore the people of this island from its roots, but my heart is assuaged by the obvious fact that our ancestors had left us this incontrovertable evidence of their insight and their love for our mother.

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 1:12AM on Sunday, June 20, 2010 Pacific Time
Fantastic insight, the interview with Valeria is right on topic. So glad that she is on your board, a powerful, gifted woman with heart and soul.

Comment from Iodipttut | USA
Posted on 4:04AM on Saturday, June 19, 2010 Pacific Time
Two-thirds of Americans struggle to reach their weight loss goal, seriously jeopardizing long term health and taking precious years off their lifespan. If current trends continue, over the next two decades, experts believe the number of overweight and obese will swell to over 80% of all adults.

Many people have the desire to lose weight and have put forth the effort countless times. The end result is typically a failure, as permanent weight loss requires a major shift in lifestyle which is difficult for most. Some people fall for fad diet pills which promise massive weight loss in a short period of time without the need for calorie restriction or exercise. This is not the way to lose weight and can even endanger your health.

The only proven method to achieve permanent weight loss is eating a reduced calorie diet highlighted by plenty of vegetables and a regular exercise routine. Sometimes our metabolism stalls and we hit a diet plateau. Reducing calories or increasing exercise doesn’t make the scale move. This is a survival mechanism which has evolved over the millennia and which likely served our ancestors well, but today simply compounds the problem. There are some ‘tricks’ savvy dieters use to help overcome the inevitable weight plateau and achieve their target goal.

If offtop del this post, please

Comment from Sandra Gea
Posted on 5:55AM on Monday, June 07, 2010 Pacific Time
Dear Danica,
I came across an excerpt of your book “Blood and Honey” through Silvana’s Facebook page and was deeply moved by your reference to Baba Yaga. Silvana encouraged me to write to you about how much Baba Yaga has meant to me over these last four years.
I read about Baba Yaga for the very first time in the book “Women who run with the wolves” by Clarissa Pinkola Estes. The story of Baba Yaga and Vasalisa is presented as an initiatic ritual for the young girl into listening to the inner voice of her instinct. The story of Baba Yaga and Vasalisa, I am more than certain now, has had on me healing and reconstructing effects.
As if some imaginary button had been pushed, I got into a travel back in time into my own personal story, visualizing myself as a little girl and undertaking the same tasks as Vasalisa over and over again. The story of Baba Yaga made me realize that my grandmother played an important role in my life as a child and as a teenager. She passed away a year ago and since then I feel a stronger connection with her and especially with her house. It is around this period that I started talking to Baba Yaga just before falling asleep, telling her about my fears and failures and how much I would like to have the strength to overcome them. The days following the dialogues with Baba Yaga , I faced situations where I got the proof that I had overcome my “weakness” by acting with self-confidence and clarity of mind and speech.
Just yesterday, I remembered a dream I had a few years ago. It featured an old lady with grey hair behind a window. She was holding me a stalk of a plant she called lupinia. By going through my diary, the date of the dream coincides with the period I first read Baba Yaga.
I am only at the beginning of a long road but I am certain that the story of Baba Yaga has brought me closer to Nature and to my own nature. It has given me clarity but most of all a stronger ground to step my feet on. Now, you can imagine my amazement when reading in your post "Nature is another word for Baba Yaga". It is true, I felt kind of dizzy...maybe my soul and mind connect things quicker than my own ability of communicating through language...I felt a huge fire in my stomach and tears close to my eyes like when you remember something that was long forgotten. I cannot connect all the pieces of the jigsaw together yet but I feel the signs are leading towards Mother Earth and this is filling me with an immense joy.
Silvana told me that Baba Yaga is very dear to you and this letter is a testimony of her great power. It is the very first time I am writing so much in detail about Baba Yaga and how she has manifested herself in my life. I thank you for reading my letter and wish you every success in your future projects.
With kind regards,
Sandra Gea

Comment from cheryl waitkevich
Posted on 9:09PM on Monday, April 26, 2010 Pacific Time
Hi, we met on the bike trail. I will send this to Robert, but given his dialup connection, the graphics will take forever to load. Might be better to sendme your address and I will make sure you get on the email list for the ppiano concerts. Hi to the dogs and wonderful chatting with you.

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 3:33AM on Friday, April 23, 2010 Pacific Time
I just LOVE this pic!!!

Comment from discount nike shoes | USA
Posted on 7:12PM on Thursday, April 22, 2010 Pacific Time
Good journey and experience!

Comment from jordan shoes
Posted on 4:22PM on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 Pacific Time
great share, great article, very usefull for me...thank

you

Comment from SVkadin-Hoitt
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:40AM on Friday, April 16, 2010 Pacific Time
I have seen this trauma work expressed and the healing thanks that ensues with myself and with the women first hand. The first person stories that we are allowed to speak in this Kolo forum are heard and validated. We are strong.

Comment from Jessica | New York City
Posted on 4:32AM on Friday, April 16, 2010 Pacific Time
I totally support your point of view! Keep it up that way!

Comment from uttefeLow | Croatia
Posted on 5:28PM on Thursday, April 15, 2010 Pacific Time
Hello i am new here i hope to help out to this forum and should stick around.

Thx's.

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:46AM on Tuesday, April 13, 2010 Pacific Time
Visiting Ahmica for a second time with Kolo:WCCC was as special as it was in 2007, this time I felt the women's curiosity even more hightened, the willingness to embrace us and our lifework, communion, art - as we equally embraced their lifework was truly a sign of the harmony by women, that is always possible. Thank you for providing the framework for this beautiful experience. I would like to see more women do this, practice your kolo work.

Comment from Victoria Rames
Posted in response to the story on this page on 12:00AM on Sunday, April 11, 2010 Pacific Time
I was the U.N. Gender Advisor in Haiti. I never lead a Health meeting while in Haiti. Please check your information, and correct this article. I am 100% sure that I did not participate in the meeting in question.

Thank you,
Victoria Rames
(former) U.N. Gender Advisor (GENCAP)in Haiti
vrames@yahoo.com

Comment from Silvana
Posted in response to the story on this page on 2:55PM on Monday, March 29, 2010 Pacific Time
Croatia Air will hear from all of us. No one wants to work out side of the 'box'. It's disheartening. Thankfully there are women activists, even everyday activists that will shoulder the responsibility. Thank you for teaching us.

Comment from Susana | Novi Travnik
Posted in response to the story on this page on 9:31AM on Saturday, March 27, 2010 Pacific Time
Dobra i konstruktivna konferencija. Nadam se da ce zene Ahmica prepoznati zelju zena iz inostranstva a i domacih da nisu zaboravljene, da i drugi zele podijeliti sa njima njihove probleme, a i dobre rezultate njihovog udruzenja i da cemo nastaviti zajednicku saradnju.

Comment from rhyprospemo | Moldova
Posted on 6:58PM on Friday, March 26, 2010 Pacific Time
We offer you full range of services to make your vocation unforgettable!

1. Romantic trips to any country with beautiful lady! Unforgettable impressions, happy moments, new meetings.

2. Weekend in Ukraine! Transfers, beautiful guides, luxury apartments, exciting entertainments.

3. Beautiful lades in Ukraine! Meet your perfect match! Romantic meetings, dates, flirt, positive emotions.

Dreamtime for life!

e-mail: ladycompanionua@gmail.com

skype: ladycompanion

www.lady-companion.com.ua

Comment from palsbaste | Bahrain
Posted on 8:43AM on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 Pacific Time
what this site if for? I don't understand..

Comment from vahida puzovic
Posted on 5:05AM on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 Pacific Time
lijepo je bilo cuti vas i slusati zelim se pridruziti kolu ali iz TRAVNIKA ,SA svojim ucesnicama koje su ziva ISTORIJA trauma ,stresova,i opsanka i OSTANKA

Comment from vahida puzovic | travnik
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:59AM on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 Pacific Time
lijepo je bilo slusati gos.Danicu i sa punim pterenu ostovanjem ,mislim da bi se mogla slusati cio dan i vise ,ali takodje svi oni koji su je slusali imali su sto ispricati o traumama u BIH I SVOME MJESTU BORAVKA ,NADAM SE DA CE NAM SE PRUZITI MOGUCNOST ALI da ce to biti na neutralnom terenu tj ne u mjestu boravka ,jer traume su tu a treba da ih znaju i drugi koji zive na drugim podrucjima i drzavama jer ih mogu dozivjeti ili ce ,pa da cuju i znaju ,veliki pozdrav za gos DANICU i ostale ucesnice iz drugih drzava ,HVALA

Comment from sleeliafaky | Guatemala
Posted on 1:07AM on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 Pacific Time
Greetings Everyone i am new here, just though id say hey. I hope i can help out on this board.
Thanks.

Comment from johnlongslinger | USA
Posted on 7:08PM on Monday, March 15, 2010 Pacific Time
Hello. John here. I am new to the community. First of all, I want to thank those that have put this together. It is a great place to learn and get more information. I just wanted to make an introductory post to introduce myself. Thanks for the help.

Comment from footballc1 | United States
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:13AM on Saturday, March 13, 2010 Pacific Time
Hi all, I just signed up on this splendid online community and wished to say hey there! Have a good day!

Comment from Roxie Quick | Savoonga, AK
Posted in response to the story on this page on 7:56PM on Thursday, March 11, 2010 Pacific Time
Truly, I am 'inspired' by this foundation! Thank you Danica for following your inspiration and sharing with the rest of us. You've created a path for the journey!

Comment from Paul Dyer | fargo
Posted on 5:24AM on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 Pacific Time
haveing you on peace talk radio in Fargo, North Dakota is a great blessing I thank you we all are thankful

Comment from GofweemaFeF | Peru
Posted on 9:07AM on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 Pacific Time
Hey, Nice Forum i should be able to contribute here.
Cheers.

Comment from emegiocrese | Austria
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:37AM on Monday, March 01, 2010 Pacific Time
Hi There

i've just joined here and wanted to say hi to all of you!I really hope to give something back to this board...

Cheers

Comment from Mary | Washington State
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:56PM on Sunday, February 28, 2010 Pacific Time
I am so distressed by the telling of your story regarding the
the Haitian people and their suffering after the Mega quake.
Why in life is there such inequality given to our brothers and sisters?
Your writings remind me that there is good that comes out of
such a devestating tragedy. Learning to thrive or in my
words learning to live life is very hard work. Sometimes
thrust upon all of us through hardship and great loss.
To give of oneself to another is the greatest effort we
can experience. Think what a difference we could make in
the lives of others if we just give what we can.

Comment from Mary | Washington State
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:54PM on Sunday, February 28, 2010 Pacific Time
I am so distressed by the telling of your story regarding the
the Haitian people and their suffering after the Mega quake.
Why in life is there such inequality given to our brothers and sisters?
Your writings remind me that there is good that comes out of
such a devestating tragedy. Learning to thrive or in my
words learning to live life is very hard work. Sometimes
thrust upon all of us through hardship and great loss.
To give of oneself to another is the greatest effort we
can experience. Think what a difference we could make in
the lives of others if we just give what we can.

Comment from Debra Robinson
Posted on 1:26PM on Sunday, February 28, 2010 Pacific Time
Hi Danica, when you're over there in March, i would love to have some feedback on how well the PTSD work lasted. thanks, Debra

Comment from msmarystrikens | United Kingdom
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:58AM on Saturday, February 27, 2010 Pacific Time
Hello! I really liked your forum, especially this section. I just signed up and immediately decided to introduce myself, if I'm wrong section, ask the moderators to move the topic to the right place, hopefully it will take me well... My name is Mary, me 29 years, humourist and serious woman in one person. I apologize for my English

Comment from Silvana
Posted in response to the story on this page on 1:56PM on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 Pacific Time
Your insight to the Haitian disaster as a first person telling is indeed touching and frightening. It is because of the trauma healing Kolo work that you do, that you can retell it with such clarity and understanding, that I can appreciate. Thank you for offering this. I have to reread it again, as there is so much. I will pass it on. Thank you

Comment from Suzie
Posted in response to the story on this page on 11:39PM on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 Pacific Time
I love this article for more reasons than I can list. What struck me the most, was your comments on the UN and other large aid agencies failure to act beyond discussion. Endless meetings and burocracy. As you said, why even go? What benifit is there to anyone who has suffered disaster to have a barrier where what you need is on the other side of the wall, and you must simply wait. Waiting is death for those who are injured, starving, and surrounded by toxins. It is violence.
I am grateful for the work you do and what you have shared.

Comment from Carli Davidson | Portland Oregon
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:54PM on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 Pacific Time
Thank you for the first person story of what it is like in Haiti. This situation is such a black hole, and knowing that so little attention is being given to heal trauma in the moment is devastating. I love the comments on the woman who has decided to save the forests, and the child who dove into the camera project, taking the opportunity to heal themselves, and not just surviving. Your work is amazing, and important, and I only hope other grassroots organizations are able to heal haiti on a cellular level as well, not just air drop supplies.

Comment from Buy Cialis | Netherlands
Posted on 2:53AM on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 Pacific Time
It is remarkable, very valuable piece

Comment from Liaxralltiz | Kentucky
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:36PM on Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Pacific Time
My hubby and i have been scouting around at this website and have found it to be unquestionably handy. I would greatly be grateful for just about any help.

Not too long ago, Louisville has blossomed as a major center for the health care and medical sciences industrial sectors. Louisville has been key to progress in heart and hand surgery treatment as well as cancer healing. Quite a few of the earliest fake cardiovascular system transplants were practiced in Louisville. Louisville's blooming downtown medical research grounds includes the unique $Eighty-eight thousand rehabilitation middle, and a health and fitness sciences exploration and commercialization recreation area which, in partnership with the University of Louisville, has lured nearly 75 leading experts and research workers. Louisville will be also house to Humana, 1 of the nation's biggest health insurance coverage corporations.

Louisville is home to several major firms and institutions.

Comment from baibraunpatry | Kentucky
Posted on 1:52PM on Tuesday, February 09, 2010 Pacific Time
I have been scouting around at this website and have found it to be pretty helpful. I would really be thankful for almost any help.

Recently, Louisville has came about as a major center for the health care and health-related sciences sectors. Louisville has been central to enhancements in heart and hand surgical procedure as well as cancer treatment. Quite a few of the earliest manufactured heart transplants were done in Louisville. Louisville's thriving downtown medical research campus involves the fresh $88 thousand rehab facility, and a well-being sciences analysis and commercialization recreation area which, in joint venture with the University of Louisville, has lured nearly 75 main scientists and research workers. Louisville is usually also house to Humana, 1 of the nation's largest health insurance cover organizations.

Louisville is residence to many major businesses and agencies.

Comment from miller bennett | USA
Posted on 3:12AM on Tuesday, February 09, 2010 Pacific Time
Nice work! Why cant we just keep it simple and talk about the superbowl?

Comment from Jeotokyweerry | Kentucky
Posted on 9:33PM on Monday, February 08, 2010 Pacific Time
I was looking at this site and find it to be really helpful. I would greatly appreciate any assistance.

Comment from Jeotokyweerry | Kentucky
Posted on 6:13AM on Monday, February 08, 2010 Pacific Time
I was looking at this site and have found it to be really helpful. I would greatly appreciate any help.

Comment from coallcigSib | Slovakia
Posted on 12:56AM on Wednesday, February 03, 2010 Pacific Time
I'm newbie here, I hope to get friends at this forum

Comment from thehotoneisinthehouse | USA
Posted on 9:40AM on Tuesday, February 02, 2010 Pacific Time
This is very interesting information here. I wish I had found this first before I signed up for the other one. This is much better!

Comment from Shedlie
Posted on 9:19AM on Monday, February 01, 2010 Pacific Time
Hi Daneza, Just wanted to say thanks for your help and support. You were right in the sens that i already knew all that but simply needed an outside voice to help me figure it out.

Comment from chaeril | indonesia
Posted on 11:09PM on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 Pacific Time
please email me : theblackrose28@gmail.com

Comment from Pohifssoabima | Bolivia
Posted on 4:28AM on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 Pacific Time
Hello there I was just dropping in to say hello and introduce myself! Im a computer geek that found this forum and hope to become an active member soon! So if you happen to have and computer questions feel free to ask. Otherwise see you all on the boards.

Comment from Beth Smith(Rowley) | San Felipe Mexico Baja
Posted in response to the story on this page on 8:55AM on Thursday, January 21, 2010 Pacific Time
Danica, We are down here for our winters. Any info on the Baja? All the best Beth and Dan Smith

Comment from Tea
Posted on 1:24AM on Thursday, January 21, 2010 Pacific Time
This is a great site!Wish you all the best in the future! I have only one remark when you write abot my country BiH, you only use Bosnia. I do not understand why you leave the Herzegovina part out? My wish would be to include Herzegovina in your writings for the people who live there.Bosnia is only the northern region of the country and does not represent the south. Thank you very much!!Greetings from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Comment from SergClainHome | US
Posted on 6:50AM on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 Pacific Time
While the life-expectancy gap between men and women has decreased, it's no secret that men still need to pay more attention to their bodies. Several things work against men. They tend to smoke and drink more than women. They don't seek medical help as often as women. Some men define themselves by their work, which can add to stress.
There are also health conditions that only affect men, such as prostate cancer and low testosterone. Many of the major health risks that men face – like colon cancer or heart disease - can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. Screening tests can find diseases early, when they are easier to treat. It's important to have regular checkups and screenings.

Comment from brulsepooro | Ecuador
Posted on 10:51PM on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 Pacific Time
I just want too take time too thank the active members for doing what you do and making the community what it is im a long time reader and first time poster so i just wanted to say thanks.

Comment from Rabit Cages | England
Posted on 11:06AM on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 Pacific Time
Your site keeps getting better and better! Your older articles are not as good as newer ones you have a lot more creativity and originality now keep it up!

Comment from emeliajines | USA
Posted on 10:18PM on Sunday, January 17, 2010 Pacific Time
So Come on? Is that really the best that you can do?

Comment from johnnylawisit | USA
Posted on 10:19PM on Monday, January 11, 2010 Pacific Time
So I think that there is good information here. Thanks for the contribution!

Comment from injuptElipt | USA
Posted on 6:20AM on Sunday, January 03, 2010 Pacific Time
1. The complimentary paper tells you that President Nixon has resigned.
2. The mint on the pillow starts moving when you come close to it.
3. There is still some stuff that they put around crime scenes that is yellow.
4. The pictures are not placed for decoration but to cover up recent bullet holes.
5. You have to wait until the guy next door is done with the towel so you can use it.
6. There's a chalk outline in the bed when you pull back the covers
:-)

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:42AM on Friday, December 04, 2009 Pacific Time
i think this script is too negative, there are so many nice things about marriage that it doesnt bring out. I think most married women (three quarters)in the world actually have nice marriages with so much to say about it.

Lions?? i have seen the pride that a lioness has in the lion, we met a couple on the road and and the female was resting while the male stood on guard and they blocked us. The male only moved when the female got up and it showed of the pride of being protected and cared for.

Comment from imwiseman | Australia
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:51AM on Wednesday, November 25, 2009 Pacific Time

I have hardly ever known a mathematician who was capable of reasoning.
Quotation of Plato

Comment from alan
Posted on 7:49PM on Sunday, November 22, 2009 Pacific Time
Did you get my email? Hugs Alan

Comment from Domimho | United States
Posted in response to the story on this page on 7:52PM on Friday, November 20, 2009 Pacific Time
I need your help!
Has anybody been in Russia? What’s your opinion?
I’m going to go there in spring but still I need more information. All I’m familiar with is Moscow…
Can you suggest me something? What to visit? Or probably, you can advise some really interesting places especially which are situated far away from big cities?
Any ideas about travel agencies that hone in on some outstanding or off the wall tourist activities? I visited such web sites as  (gotorussia.com, russia-travel.com, dovisit.com, russia.com, etc.), they really offer such tours but I’m not sure they are reliable enough…
I really appreciate your help and advices.
Thanks a lot, Michael

Comment from Danica Anderson
Posted on 7:07PM on Friday, November 20, 2009 Pacific Time
Contact info: danica@kolocollaboration.org for Kolo information and contact us with your inquiries.

Comment from Nadine McNeil | Taupo, New Zealand
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:54PM on Friday, November 20, 2009 Pacific Time
Searching for depth and meaning have become the latest hallmarks of capitalism. And like all other addictions, moving from one self-help book to seminar to workshop to conference with the promise of being 'on the fast track to salvation' is what has humanity dipping into their pockets in spite of these supposedly tough economic times. Perhaps now that we've had an opportunity to taste how the vast majority of humanity live -- on the perpetual verge of wanting -- finally, our capitalist consciences have been pricked to 'make a difference.' The desire to be a kinder, gentler person is BIG business. Yet what I continue to learn is that there comes a time when unless one is in action, no amount of conferences can lead to transformation. That said, for many, these outlets are the first bold and courageous step that one manages to take beyond the confines of their comfort zones. The invitation that I extend as we fork out significant sums of money to attend these various outlets is one of self-inquiry; why are we even interested? what do we have to contribute? to what extent are we willing to give of ourselves without giving away ourselves? is my only motive for going the chance to promote my latest publication? Once we have clarity around these issues and questions then perhaps we'll be more selective not only of the conferences that we attend but also how we show up once there.

Comment from Sandra Capri
Posted on 2:49AM on Monday, November 16, 2009 Pacific Time
Danica
I have read about your work thru the Matriarcal list
I am a dance teacher and work for a women association here in Bologna
Would be please to support your work and also learn (as apprentice) your methods
Pls inform me about any european or usa training progam but also dances ,, pls let me know
Grazie - thanks

Comment from Silvana Vukadin Hoitt
Posted in response to the story on this page on 9:09PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Pacific Time
I love the matriarchy is the hearbeat of the community

Comment from Ann Barczay Sloan | Bainbridge Island, WA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 12:07AM on Monday, November 09, 2009 Pacific Time
Danica -- Thank you for having the fierce courage to bring this massive tragedy of war-related PTSD into to the open. Too many don't think about it, manage to ignore it... As for me, I think about it every day and feel sad, but then I suppress the thought and do nothing about it... So again, I say thank you for your passionate heart and your strong voice that keeps on speaking out!
Blessings to you and all those for whom you speak
Ann Barczay Sloan

Comment from Danica | Olympia,WA
Posted on 4:50PM on Sunday, November 08, 2009 Pacific Time
Please email me- danica@kolocollaboration.org

Comment from Gerry Bowers
Posted on 2:15PM on Thursday, November 05, 2009 Pacific Time
Hey Danica,
It's Gerry from HREI. How are you? Are you still in Vancouver? I would love to catch up with you, and hear how things are going at Kolo. I have been traveling to Portland quite a bit lately and if you are in the area perhaps we can meet up.
Take care,
g

Comment from Ezra D. Knox | Dayton,Ohio
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:27PM on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 Pacific Time
Debra,
Believe in your heart that you are making a contribution because you are doing. Please continue on you journey. You as well as those who paths you cross, is and will be rewarded.
God bless you,
Ezra

Comment from Dayana Anderson | Seattle
Posted in response to the story on this page on 1:54PM on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 Pacific Time
I think the crux of the issue is that when women get together, there tends to be little organization because we prefer amorphous situations filled with spontaneity. Problem with that is, then there's no direction and too much wiggle room for dominant and subordinate female personalities. So we hire a conference planner, who over-plans everything and loses sight of the whole idea. There's not really a woman with a paying job that does what we need: plans a female conference. The women who attend the female conference don't want the logic, but the people who plan the conference hate the people who don't want the logic.

So. Where's the middle ground?

Why don't you just throw a huge party? We're social creatures. That's where we'd flourish.

Comment from Bernedette Muthien | Cape Town, South Africa
Posted on 8:24AM on Saturday, October 31, 2009 Pacific Time
I was deeply moved by Danica's sharing of her work with us at the Motherworld conference in Toronto, October 2009. In solidarity,
Bernedette Muthien
Engender
www.engender.org.za
Cape Town, South Africa

Comment from Silvana
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:33PM on Thursday, October 29, 2009 Pacific Time
What an encouraging article and observations from a vast amount of experience and hard work. The years of trauma healing and experience with women lends you to be the formative example to women in ND, indigenous or from other lands. I am sure that this will be successful and bring women together.

Comment from Ann Jackson
Posted on 10:51AM on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 Pacific Time
I would like to contact Danica Anderson about a possible speaking event.

Comment from SVHoitt
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:46AM on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 Pacific Time
Amazing and incredible journey, always. Bosnia, and Bosnian women the world doesn't forget.

Comment from Faggot56
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:05AM on Friday, October 23, 2009 Pacific Time
Any recommendation on what to do and what not to do? ,

Comment from Emina Kurti
Posted on 9:01AM on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 Pacific Time
Dobar dan,

This is Emina Kurti from Piccolo. It was very nice to meet you ladies at the Piccolo.
I just wanted to leave my contact information with you and hope to hear or see you soon.

Cell Phone: (701) 412-7357
or email : Albaneshka@hotmail.com
:Kurtiem@mnstate.edu



Hvala mnogo i puno zdravle,

Emina Kurti

Comment from Margie Stillwell | Minnesota, USA
Posted on 12:21PM on Monday, October 19, 2009 Pacific Time
alot to learn here.
I applaud you all

Comment from Andrea Ryan | Brisbane Australia
Posted in response to the story on this page on 5:13AM on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Pacific Time
How coincidental that I find this myself just the other night as I scroll through ted.com for food and conversation for my mind. This is a beautiful tragic story about humankind as it dares to teach itself to be global. We need to remember this truth when looking over even the closest of our suburban fences at our neighbours - maybe we only think we see them. Love a chat someday again Danica - Mwa! Good luck with your presentation.

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 9:32PM on Thursday, October 01, 2009 Pacific Time
The fact that Ratko Mladic's where abouts are known and he is not arrested is crimminal and a disgrace. He parades around a happy fat grandfather cooing at little children, while hundreds of thousands mourn their dead in Bosnia. If they really wanted him out of Serbia he would be sitting along side his boy toy Karadzic right now.

Comment from Nathan Michael Marcuzzi | Vancouver, Canada
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:38AM on Friday, September 18, 2009 Pacific Time
It's seems we, the human race, have allowed ego to drive our reason (thinking). It's very apparent that the Western world is hard done by when it comes to changing their ways. Who wants to give up driving their cars? Cut down on their meat in-take? Make intelligent (eco-friendly) purchases? And not gradually, or in a few months, right now; today! It seems we would rather selfishly flood ourselves (pun intended) in outer riches (and suffer inner poverty) than to be part of the solution(s).

What most don't understand in it's highest form, is that it's not the plant that we would be saving, it's us.

Comment from Walpydaytunda | Zimbabwe
Posted on 2:17PM on Sunday, September 13, 2009 Pacific Time
Hello! Honest resurs. Sorry for my english, but i particular nice say gJ$)Kd!!!.

Comment from FridaS | USA
Posted on 5:44AM on Saturday, August 22, 2009 Pacific Time
Hello everyone!I am Frida from LA Nice community!Hope we'll be friends.

Comment from trentlaceysunxxp | USA
Posted on 4:21PM on Thursday, August 20, 2009 Pacific Time
I really liked it. But not bad, it would be to add a few important sections.

Comment from Arzym | Russia
Posted on 6:21AM on Thursday, August 20, 2009 Pacific Time
A house with a yard for sale in Miskhor,the Crimean peninsula, Ukraine.

Two-storied house for sale in Miskhor, the Crimean peninsula, Ukraine, with a total build-up area of 200 sq m and a yard of 1500 sq m. The house is situated near the Mischor Park, 7 minutes walking to the sea cost. There are two separate asphalted drives (including the drive to the helipad). There is a garden in the yard and the opportunity for building a second house, which makes the purchase by two persons possible. There are also three small buildings with all conveniences in the yard for two or three people each. The house is connected to mains water, main sewerage and electricity.
Email: mishor-house@yandex.ru

Comment from greardmom | Cambodia
Posted on 5:48AM on Thursday, August 20, 2009 Pacific Time
Nice site!
Good Luck!

Comment from Paddy McLaughlin | Fargo, ND
Posted in response to the story on this page on 10:05PM on Monday, August 17, 2009 Pacific Time
Danica! Thanks for your brilliant commentary and fierce regard for the rights of women and children. Twice in the past week I faced trivalization as I spoke up for health care for all. I co-host a radio program called Peace Talk and we had a author who considers himself to be quite brillant and a progressive rabble rouser As he went on and on about public option being the only way for progressives to pursue health care for a win, I pointed out that any thing less then health care for all was not a compassionate option and that we should refuse to be placed in the position to make "Sophie's Choice" on who should live and who should die. The author turned to my co-host and said "My, my. Such passion. She is a good woman if rather innocent." They had a good laugh.
Earlier in the week I had been at a grassroots meeting where again the focus was on pushing for a public option, which was already being sold out and watered down in the bill. I produced stats and info on the single payer bill, HR676, and said maybe we shouldn't listen to those who told us single payer is off the table. After all,the bill has 90 co-sponsors. I said that health care was a human right and we can not back down if it was to mean even 1 would suffer and die from lack of health care. The men in the group looked at each other and the leader said, "Paddy, if this was a perfect world, but it isn't..." I replyed "Canada and Cuba live in a perfect world?" The group refused to look at my information. Information, by the way, put together by the California Nurses Association.
This hasn't stopped me. I stand and speak whenever I can wriggle into the conversation. I must give voice to my heart.

Comment from Aida Sanchez-Vela | Federal Way. WA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 9:21AM on Thursday, August 06, 2009 Pacific Time
Hello Danica!

I'm going to be one of the participants for Sherry Edwards' Crone Ceremony. I just got the information and it is so exciting! I know it is going to be wonderful, I'm already enjoying it and looking forward to it! Thank you!!

Aida

Comment from LnddMiles | Romania
Posted on 9:59PM on Sunday, July 26, 2009 Pacific Time
Pretty cool post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say
that I have really liked reading your blog posts. Anyway
I’ll be subscribing to your blog and I hope you post again soon!

Comment from GorCicarodo | United Kingdom
Posted on 7:20AM on Wednesday, July 01, 2009 Pacific Time
Just wanted to say hi and see how everyone's doing - I'm new to the forum.

Comment from Paddy McLaughlin | Fargo, North Dakota, US
Posted in response to the story on this page on 8:39AM on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 Pacific Time
A Message from MOTHER on Mother's Day

The Call
Woman,
Come softly from your head
and to your heart listen for the message from your Mother.
Love dwells in the peace and allowing of all ways.
Love cares for the innocent and the vulnerable.
Love is active listening and creative solutions.
No longer wait for the distorted ways of power to heal my world, but gather together and stand in
your own heart's wisdom.

The Challenge
Daughter of the Moon, Keeper of the Cycles, Priestess of Life,
I ask that you break the spell of smallness that keeps your head held down and your voice weak
for you come from a lineage of beautiful, glee-filled women.
Do not bend to the lies that say you are nothing, but listen to the fierce whispers of your heart that say
"Raise up and live, for Life is what you know well."
Claim your experiences and the wisdom gleaned from them. Reclaim the inner victories of your mothers and grandmothers.
Hold up the mirror for your precious daughters and sisters that they might see their beautiful Selves and,
Daughter, KNOW that the world exists because of you.

A Prayer
Mother of Us All,
May I feel your creative memory
move through my being
that I might release the thoughts that
bind me to a powerless past
and accept my true worth as
woman.

Dear Girlfriends,
Those whose face I know in my heart yet not with my eyes. Sisters all.
I step into the call for a women's and mother's movement as Danica has responded to with her life work. I know with every fiber of my being that our precious world can only survive when women recognize the war against them, which is the war against love, and drop their allegiance to the Father and his unbalance, cruel dominance, and reach across the man-made borders in our minds and our hearts, to the truth of our sisterhood; Your children are my children. Your home is my home. Your life is my life. I stand beside you. If one of us is hurting, we all hurt.

I have a small women's center in Fargo, North Dakota, which I am offering as a safe and beautiful womb for women to sit in circle with each other and witness our stories, mourn our sorrows, transform our pain, grow from our experience, celebrate our life passages and accept the truth about ourselves, no matter how beautiful it is.
I am joining forces with Danica. Fargo has a large community of refugees from Bosnia, Somalia, Viet Nam, Iraq and others. We have 3 universities and many foreign students from Pakistan, India, Africa, China, Japan, ect. We have Mexican Americans whose grandparents came here as migrants. We are truly a 'melting pot' yet the trauma of war, violence, torture, poverty, and displacement are not addressed. The focus is on integration into American culture. Kolo Collaboration is much needed here. To that end, my women's wisdom center becomes WomanPeace; Intercultral Women's Wisdom Center. Danica will be traveling to North Dakota to help me. I am excited and honored to be in service to 'this good work'. I extend an open invitation to my sisters of the world to participate in the growing of this center with your thoughts and ideas, your workshops, your musings, your business sense, your heart. My website is www.womenswisdomcenter.com and you can contact me at paddy@womenswisdomcenter.com or
701-232-0694. I will be attending the Vulnerbilty and Truth event in Olympia,Wa on May 31. Maybe I'll see some of you there. My heart to yours. Paddy McLaughlin

"The half of humanity that has never borne arms is today ready to struggle to make the brotherhood of man a reality. Perhaps the universal sisterhood is necessary before the universal brotherhood is possible."
Bertha von Suttner, Speech to the Federation of Women of America, 1912.

Comment from Danica | Olympia
Posted on 7:02AM on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 Pacific Time
Ksenija, please contact me at danica@kolocollaboration.org!

Comment from Ksenija
Posted on 11:27PM on Tuesday, March 31, 2009 Pacific Time
I grew up in Serbia, and I now live in Tacoma. I always viewed kolo as one of the many components of the Balkan patriarchy. I am grateful that The Kolo exists, and in my neighborhood, too. I will see you out. I wish to reclaim the Slavic pagan roots, to cancel the machismo orthodox Christianity I grew up with, and maybe even develop appreciation for kolo.

Comment from Nadine McNeil | Jamaica
Posted on 6:26AM on Sunday, March 08, 2009 Pacific Time
The coffee cup video clip is absolutely beautiful. The richness of this sacred Bosnian ritual shines through. I was also struck by Danica's 'presence' as she bore witness and listened to the person whose cup she was reading. The accuracy of these readings are uncanny and truly transcend boundaries. Danica and I have been engaging in coffee cup readings via distance for many years now. In fact, these readings have not only helped to ground and nurture me, they have also greatly shaped the depth of our kinship. Abundant Blessings and Light, Nadine!

Comment from Kim Bechthold, CEO, NeuroMark | Boulder, Colorado
Posted in response to the story on this page on 9:05AM on Sunday, February 22, 2009 Pacific Time
This article and saying "enough" is incredibly powerful. The message has gone out to my most influential friends and associates. It is truly "time" to say "enough."

Ms. Anderson highlights spousal abuse. Our company's work is in the genetics of behavior and neuropsychiatric diseases. We believe that Bipolar Disease is at the root of a great deal of spousal abuse Bipolar Disease can cause a person to become highly agitated and angry. Spousal abuse is rarely thought of as an illness yet it may be, in large part. The disease is critically underdiagnosed. When a woman suffers abuse from a spouse, rarely is the spouse treated medically or diagnosed with a neurpsychiatric condition.
This is an incredible area of opportunity. With greater understanding and education, violence against domestic partners could change dramatically.
It is hard to know if the violence against women world wide has a neuropsychiatric component, but Ms. Anderson's world world wide work gives us an incredible opportunity in the future to find out and possibly save additional countless lives beyond those that the Kolo is protecting and saving now.

Comment from Nadine McNeil | Jamaica
Posted in response to the story on this page on 3:07PM on Friday, December 05, 2008 Pacific Time
Indeed, Jamaica is a paradox in terms. As I was driving home this evening -- also to a beautiful sanctuary nestled in the hills of St. Andrew -- while listening to the news on the radio, the reporter stated that some regulatory body had concurred that as a result of Jamaica's abhorrently violent track record that foreign investors are reluctant to invest in this magical land. A wry smile crossed my face because while I know that there is 'merit' to statistics, for me, the reality on the ground feels somewhat different. Photographer Carbone prior to her recent visit to Jamaica inquired from me about the level of 'danger' raging across the land. I found this question difficult to answer because in spite of the global perception of Jamaica, there is an immense sense of liberation that I feel here. Her beautiful photo above captures precisely this essence. Perhaps the greatest danger I encounter where Jamaica is concerned is ALL the fear that surrounds its people and the land as a whole. For me the pressing question remains, how do we break this stereotype such that we are able to attract responsible investors? By this I mean people, governments and companies who are prepared to give back to Jamaica while reaping the magical benefits that this island nation has to offer in its beauty, its people, its music, its complexities, its magic. Only then will we be able to break the vicious cycle of 'virulent violence and ever-present poverty.'

Comment from Kellie Brinton | Seattle WA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 1:47PM on Thursday, September 25, 2008 Pacific Time
Stephanie, I don't understand your post. Could you explain more? Thanks ahead of time.

Comment from Joan Marler | northern California
Posted in response to the story on this page on 11:34AM on Monday, September 22, 2008 Pacific Time
What an amazing portrait. I gazed with awe into each of their beautiful faces - especially the two sisters. Are they twins? Which radiant child is Danica? Such a picture dissolves the impersonal catagory of "refugee" and reveals the profoundly personal nature of the situation. I can't help but ask how refugee status and immigration affected the lives of these innocent children. Thank you, Danica, for posting this snapshot of your family more than half a century ago. J.

Comment from Joan Marler | Sebastopol, CA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 11:25AM on Monday, September 22, 2008 Pacific Time
Thanks for including Marija's photo.
Her origins are not Slavic, however. She would heartily object. Her lineage is decidedly Baltic.
Keep up your extremely important work. J.

Comment from Nadine McNeil | Jamaica
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:37AM on Sunday, September 21, 2008 Pacific Time

'And the final dare and most important, is for women to experience female solidarity globally.' (Danica Anderson)

In Jamaica, a country filled with single family households headed by a mother, a female leader of the opposition -- generally a society that is legendary for producing STRONG women, STILL we succumb to meting out horizontal violence to each other through vicious gossip. Yet the paradox for me is that when one dares to raise the flag in my efforts to contribute to global solidarity, I am silenced by the very women who I am aiming to build community with. Since being in Jamaica for the longest period since I left over twenty years ago, my greatest challenge has been to establish authentic relationships with evolving women. Their amnesia, which when brought to their attention gives rise to defensive reactions, is a tell-tale sign of the brain washing of our colonial patriarchal history and upbringing.

Like in the days of slavery, I believe that the male patriarchy set us up against ourselves in order to quell our power. Irrespective of how we may feel about the Palins and Clintons of this world, one thing remains undisputed: these females are wielding power; albeit the former one being prostituted by political mindgames to further their own agendas.

Female solidarity is powerful and transformational. Akin to the field slave who was misled to thinking that because they were in closer proximity to their abusers that they were better than their field counterparts, we must inquire within -- this will help us to see that we're being used by the very male figures and systems that we blindly worship. In other words, through our blind inaction, we are perpetuating the very system/s that are manipulating and abusing us. Awareness leads to acknowledgement of who we are -- divine feminine beings, givers of Life.

And utimately, finally, our awareness of self will lead to the experience that Danica Anderson beckons -- global female solidarity.

Comment from Anonymous | Bosnia
Posted in response to the story on this page on 3:29AM on Thursday, September 18, 2008 Pacific Time
The kolo danced by you is done with so much love. Ahmici women have witnessed and endured the loss of their families. Beautifully written

Comment from Km Bechthold | Colorado
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:37AM on Friday, September 12, 2008 Pacific Time
So barren, so cold, amidst such beauty.

Comment from Kim Bechthold | Colorado
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:34AM on Friday, September 12, 2008 Pacific Time
This is an amazing picture. What can heal this beautiful land and its people?

Comment from Kim Bechthold
Posted in response to the story on this page on 6:31AM on Friday, September 12, 2008 Pacific Time
It is difficult to put this into a framework to undertand the lives of the people. Does this simple shred of feminine culture actually stay alive and support the women? I would love to hear more about how they are surviving.

Comment from hanan ishag | Sudan
Posted on 2:31AM on Thursday, September 11, 2008 Pacific Time
it's very intersting I am woundering with this very beutiful green cover there is truma I can not imagine that

Comment from hanan ishag | sudan
Posted in response to the story on this page on 2:22AM on Thursday, September 11, 2008 Pacific Time
Wau Danica unbelivable what a beutiful view

Comment from Dejana | Olympia, WA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 12:21PM on Sunday, September 07, 2008 Pacific Time
it's interesting how rain is so cleansing everywhere in the world. going back to the natural elements is what trauma really needs.

Comment from Stephanie Hiller | Santa Fe
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:52PM on Saturday, September 06, 2008 Pacific Time
Isn't it interesting that the words chosen in this snippet could actually be spoken by the pro choice feminists? In fact I thought they were! Did I hear it wrong? "Most women are not given a voice. They are killed without any choice."

Exactly. We are in agreement after all!

Comment from Kellie B | home
Posted in response to the story on this page on 11:19PM on Monday, July 21, 2008 Pacific Time
As I read your writing I laughed out loud. Not out of derision but out of the familiarity of a brutally shared experience.

I have attended one UW grad and two High School ceremonies. The UW was not dwarfed by the High School grads as one was at the Tacoma Dome and the other at Safeco Field.

Each one was a giant barge load of crapola. Those long hours sitting on metal bleachers is something my rear end will probably never recover from (as if gravity itself isn't enough). I know the grads themselves were more intent on their escape from both ceremony and families to party on, in many cases until senslessly drunk. Most sat endlessly texting their frieds paying no attention to the droning microphone white noise. Many played cards, cell phone games, or zoned out on their IPods.

Our educational system is an overpriced sham. Two UW grads never opened a book. All tests can be found and memorized long enough to pass the test. The only thing that is really required is pay the institution. Most I knew have parents paying the way as they drove off in newer cars than I can afford provided by their parents. The rest will work for their entire lives to pay off not only the cost of school but the credit cards showered on them on campus.

They have started their lives off either expecting to have everything handed to them or so painfully indebted that they will only exist to pay the "Company Store" forever.

The big shocker is that those high paying jobs promised as a result of this "education" are only there for those elite families who paved the way for their progeny. Kinda like the Bush or Kennedy families.

What a massive con job. I'm sorry kids but you learned how to be what the corporate entities want you to be but you didn't learn how to think or how to be.

Comment from Nathan Michael Marcuzzi | Maui, Hawai'i
Posted in response to the story on this page on 4:30PM on Thursday, June 05, 2008 Pacific Time
It’s an extremely positive sign to see people of these nations reincorporating sustainability into their lives. Sadly, it was cruel circumstances that forced them back to the Earth. In our case however, we have allowed Industrialized Agriculture to baby us, so much so that we have placed away our gardening tools and now head for convenience of the grocery stores. I often wonder: we will be forced into living sustainably like that of the people of Bosnia and Africa, or will we go willing?

I currently live on an organic farm on the Island of Maui. Everyday I touch the Earth; three times a day I pick the fresh fruit and vegetables that nourish my body. Everyday I plant something new, and watch things grow. Yet, at the same time, I see people leaving the grocery stores with foods they could have easily grown in their own backyard.

What is keeping us from picking up a hoe & rake? Surely a little dirt under our fingernails doesn’t hurt anyone. Why do we continue to buy foods that have come from a far? Foods that have been packaged in a tin can, glass jar or plastic container?

When we organically grow our own food, we are not just putting wholesome, highly nutritious, flavorful food on to our tables and into our bodies. We are connecting ourselves back with the Earth and practicing a highly sustainable life, thus reducing the usage of resources and amount of pollution being created.

It is important for us to truly understand how sustainable organically growing our own food is, as suppose to going to the grocery store and buying it. If we grow a fruit or vegetable in our own backyard, there is very little energy and/or resources used: we simply step out of our back door and pick the fruit or vegetable. If we go to the grocery store on the other hand, and buy that same fruit or vegetable, the amount of energy and resources including chemicals used (even if organic) to get that fruit or vegetable from the industrialized farm in which it was grown to your home is astonishing. Without going into greater detail, mechanical planting, picking and processing; transport, packaging, stocking and waste management are all involved just to get that tasteless, low quality, low nutritional fruit or vegetable to your table.

Here on Maui, there is a wonderful saying used: Grown here. Not flown here.

The price of gasoline has also been mentioned. Here is another fine example of how unsustainable we are living. Despite attempts from all sides (major industries, activists and citizens alike) to implement a more alternative or “friendly” fuel (Bio Fuels, Electricity etc.) the issue of sustainability still flourishes. Why? Because the real answer is not switching to a friendlier, alternative fuel when there are nearly 700 million cars roaming the Earth. The real answer, the most sustainably answer is mass Transit: Inexpensive (if not free), convenient, safe, efficient and accessible transit systems.

If we were to switch solely to bio fuel for example, to run 700 million cars, we would have to farm the entire Earths’ current farmland (plus some) to supply the amount of Soy and/or Corn needed.
Same goes for an Electric/Solar run cars. If we went solely to Electric, the millions of toxic, dead batteries that would begin to fill our waste sites would hardly be sustainable, not to mention the demand for huge structural changes for “re-charing” stations.

Sustainable Living need not become a fad, nor should it become “the thing to do”. We need to make it part of our daily lives. But until that day, until the urban elite step out of their cars, pick up a hoe and rake, we will continue to face massive loss of wilderness, deforestation, widespread pollution, global warming, extinction of species, violence and war.

Plant it. Grow it. Farm it. Let’s live sustainably.

Comment from Dragan | Zagreb / LA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 2:16PM on Thursday, June 05, 2008 Pacific Time
It was very hard to consume this information. Having been exposed to ex-Yugoslavian lifestyle as a child, I understand now how incredibly important it is to work on helping empower the young generation so this ingrained debilitating attitude and behavior loses its grip on our collective psyche. Thank you for being a beacon of healing light!

Much love,

Dragan
www.EmpowerMusic.org

Comment from Dragan | LA / Zagreb
Posted in response to the story on this page on 1:59PM on Thursday, June 05, 2008 Pacific Time
Your healing work is very meaningful for the psyche of the entire Balkan region. Healed mothers (and fathers) will raise empowered children, which will in turn raise the consciousness and create a brighter future for all.

Much love to you.

Dragan
www.EmpowerMusic.org

Comment from Anonymous
Posted in response to the story on this page on 8:00AM on Thursday, June 05, 2008 Pacific Time
Like making pita, singing together is a powerful source of healing and strength - singing together to make one beautiful tun; artistic expression; the benefit of breathing that accompanies singing; being together. Music provided the ground under my feet growing up and was a life ring all through my life. My daughter, now 20, remembers sitting in the center of the circle of women singing old songs of the Balkans. I believe it infused her with something of its ancient depth. There are countless examples of music's therapeutic power. I hope that along with making pita, the women sing and sing and sing.

Comment from Constance Simpson | Shelton, WA
Posted in response to the story on this page on 8:05AM on Friday, May 30, 2008 Pacific Time
I met Rasema while she was in Washington State. It is illuminating and optimistic to know that small acts contribute to healing the most grievous wounds. Listening, bearing witness, making and breaking bread together--these were small acts, performed with love and attention by Rasema and by those of us priviledged to meet and spend time with her. As a survivor of domestic violence as a young woman myself, I felt I could empathize in a small way with the cold, empty grief and fear with which Rasema lived her life after losing her loved ones. She is often in my thoughts, threaded into my life by our stories and the small acts we performed together.