Annual Soul Fix

Every February during Black History Month, Donica and I go to hear Sweet Honey in the Rock, a Grammy Award-winning, African-American, female, a cappella ensemble that's been around for 30+ years as a voice for justice and truth in the world. "Six African American women [plus a sign interpreter] join their powerful voices, along with hand percussion instruments, to create a blend of lyrics, movement and narrative that variously relate history, point the finger at injustice, encourage activism, and sing the praises of love. The music speaks out against oppression and exploitation of every kind."

"From Psalm 81:16 comes the promise to a people of being fed by honey out of the rock. Honey – an ancient substance, sweet and nurturing. Rock – an elemental strength, enduring the winds of time.... Sweet Honey invites her audiences to open their minds and hearts and think about who we are and what we do to one another and to our fellow creatures on this planet. "

Last night we got the added bonus of celebrating our Atlanta mayor, Shirley Franklin, the 2005 recipient of the Torchbearer award for The Fund For Southern Communities, the group benefiting from this concert. WOW! Two for the price of one.

Each time I hear this incredibly gifted group, I get a Soul Fix that jump-starts the rest of my year--visually, audibly and kinesthetically.