Friends,

I recently had the pleasure of sitting in on one of Ari’s zoom sessions with the shelter in Tijuana. What a delight to see hundreds of people all in one room moving, dancing, and following her lead!

Facing the camera, they began by patting the body all over and brushing off unwanted energy. Ari led them in jumping, shaking and swinging their arms to get them moving and to help them feel grounded. Then came some simple dance movements, fluid and fun, and the whole room followed along. They even tried some of her difficult moves which brought them all to laughter. She blew them kisses and they blew them back. Soon they began dancing on their own, creating their own circles, laughing, hooting, clapping and having a ball. It was one big dance party! 

Then the musical chairs began and what fun that was! Everyone helped and worked together to set up chairs. They did many rounds with different age groups, men, women and children alike. Sometimes someone landed on another person’s lap and everyone laughed. When someone jumped over a chair to get to the available chair on on the other side, everyone cheered!
 

These are people from many different countries who have fled their homes due to violence and unrest. They've traveled for hundreds of miles hoping for a new life in the US. Some of them left with the clothes on their backs. Most have lost family members along the way. They are not criminals or thieves. They are people with families who are simply looking to live life and be happy.

Ari helps them to feel human again, to feel hopeful, and to know that someone cares about them. Together they celebrate life in this simplest of ways. Her program also helps them to cultivate greater resilience, giving them the strength to face the road ahead.

Finally, Ari says, "Los amo a todos," - I love you all!

They clearly love her back!

Remember to join us for - 

Building Bridges Heart To Heart - A Concert Benefiting Musical Ambassadors Of Peace

Let us know you are coming by getting your tickets now!

100% of the profits from this concert event will directly support 

Musical Ambassadors of Peace!

All musicians are donating their performances!

Thank you for your support. We couldn't do any of this without you. If you feel so moved, please tell your friends about the concert and share this email with anyone you feel will resonate with our work.

With Gratitude,

Patricia Irby

Director - Musical Ambassadors of Peace