PFCF Asian program director, William Aura visits the Mirpur Music Program, in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Ishor, Shyam and myself were picked up at the airport by Tuhin and Raju of the PFCF music program here. All of us are enjoying learning about Bangala culture. We share food, get to know each other, and later I went downstairs to the bustling market to buy a snack and was immediately asked to have selfies taken with the locals. You can hear beautifully sung prayers rising in the distance. Everybody’s been so kind and helpful. Very glad to be here and I look forward to the rest of our week together.
HEARTS TOUCHING HEARTS
Thanks to the top notch organizational skills of Tuhin and Raju our team had a full and productive day around Dhaka today. It is literally a life-changing experience meeting so many wonderful people and visiting our PFCF music programs here in Bangladesh. I’ll admit we are bone-aching tired, the traffic snarl is challenging and the heavy monsoon rains make travel almost impossible at times, but the warmth of the people is undeniable and downright healing. Yes there are many differences between our cultures yet within us – the same beating heart. I’m so grateful to meet these beautiful family-focused folks who have so openly expressed deep love and respect for our efforts. We are playing for change.
MY NEW FRIENDS ARE PEACEMAKERS
Taking a morning walk around Dhaka to buy some fruit. It’s mango season and I assure you they are amazing. I must confess it’s quite exhilarating to walk freely around this close knit Muslim neighborhood. The people are so very kind. I’m greeted with a big smile and soft spoken words. When asked where I’m from, I say America and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. One young man shouted out “America, I love you!”
MUSIC IS A WAY TO DREAM TOGETHER
Although we depart Bangladesh with a heavy heart I am certain we have made new friends for life. Ishor, Shyam and myself thank Tuhin, his family and Raju for their warm hospitality. These two fine individuals are working very hard to benefit the kids living in slum conditions around Dhaka. They are taking the very spirit of Playing For Change into heartfelt action that lifts the spirits of these precious children. Over the course of the next few weeks and months you’ll be hearing more about this spectacular program, what they are accomplishing, and their needs for the future. This work is only possible because of your good support. Please visit the Playing For Change Foundation to find out how you can get involved.
