Soo Young Lee
Sophie Weber
The MBT Social Hall was filled on April 26 with about 85 people who got swept away by soul-filled tales told by author Barbara Mahany and a magical live soundtrack created by Fused Muse Ensemble members Sophie Webber and Soo Young Lee.
Barbara Mahany
Mahany read from her very personal book of essays, “Slowing Time: Seeing the Sacred Outside Your Kitchen Door”—stories about simple acts that can make a difference for the cold and hungry, and a rare perspective on the last moments of living.
“I really enjoyed the concert,” said Leslie Stayner, MBT and Board of Trustees member. “Especially liked the story of the bird man,” he added, referring to Mahany’s reading of “The Pigeon Man of Lincoln Square.”
In addition to being “such a perfect balance between the music and the readings,” according to Lynne Matsumoto, the concert introduced new friends to MBT.
“The lady next to us visited the temple on Friday, heard about the concert, and decided to return,” said Carl Ichikawa. “She is a fan of Barbara’s and has been looking for her book. The ladies behind us were commenting what a nice venue.”
As a special treat for MBT, the ensemble (joined by several temple members) collaborated on a beautiful rendition of the traditional gatha (Buddhist hymn) – ‘Ondokusan’. Please enjoy this video of ‘Ondokusan’.