JOURNAL FROM FES:

…Once again "Rumi Returning" played to an overflow audience.  Once again "Rumi Returning" became the centerpiece for diverse peoples to gather to celebrate his universal vision of love and peace.  Once again we were reminded that his vision, unparralled in its passion, is sparking a flame of desire for unity around the world, knowing no boundary of nation, language, faith, or class.

We flew to Fes, not knowing what to expect, not knowing if our way would be paved, only knowing that once again Rumi was asking us to "gamble everything for love," and once again we were drawn to do just that.  We had been invited to be present at the Fes Festival of Sufi Culture, to manifest the renaissance of interest in Sufism and Rumi that is erupting in the West.  We were two of four Americans at the Festival of hundreds from nations in that part of our world.  Like all we met, whether from France, Africa, or Lebanon, we represented the growing desire for oneness and peace.  

Before "Rumi Returning," I shared with the audience that we had made the film because "the world needs voices who unite us."  I quoted, who else, but Rumi:  "The nation of love is like no other; lovers owe no allegiance to nation. . ."

Kell reminded the audience, most of whom spoke French, that as Rumi said, "Since we are all one, let us give up conversation made with our tongues and vibrate our hearts."  Understanding the crucial nature of this kind of communication in our globalized world, the Sufi crowd applauded.   

We felt privileged that our film was so warmly received by our audience and that it had been the only one chosen to be shown at this wonderful festival, along with ecstatic Sufi music of all kinds and practical roundtables that tackled social issues, such as how to combine spirituality with women's issues, the environment, and even business.  We felt honored to connect our hearts with those such as the highly evolved Festival director Faouzi Skali.  "Rumi Returning" was right at home--and so were we.