From the archive:

When I started this blog in 2003, it had a decidedly different intent. But last year I tossed all and started anew. There was only one post to keep: the first one. Here it is again. A short Rumi poem that may describe what we do on Wednesday nights.

You say : you are not a seeker: With us you'll become one;
And if you are not a minstrel, with us you will sing.

If you are the richest, in love, you will be bankrupt;
and if a lord. you will be a slave.

One candle from this crowd will light a thousand candles.
Whether you are dead or alive, with us you will live.

Your feet unshackled, the way clearly revealed,
your whole being will laugh,like a rose in bloom.

Come dress in rags for a moment and see the light;
then you'll throw away the silks and wear rags with us.

The fallen seeds becomes a tree
In understanding this mystery, with us you'll fall.

Shams-i Tabriz, the sun of truth, tells the heart, a bud yet to bloom.
"When your eyes open, with us you will see...."

(part of a gazal by Rumi : persian poet 1207-1273)Translated by Iraj Anvar

Oaks Bottom Public House - Apr. 18, 2007

Quiet Dr. Thomas graced us with his inaugural song tonight. Everyone was pleased.

• Let Union Be -- sung by Tom C.
• The Man That Waters The Workers' Beer -- sung by Alan S.
• Old Peculier -- sung by Hugo G.
• John Barleycorn -- sung by Paul M.
• John Barleycorn -- sung by Hugo G.
• Rolling Down to Old Maui — sung by Charley R.
• Sportsmen Arouse -- Sung by David S.
• Fathom the Bowl -- sung by Paul M.
• Finnegan's Wake -- the song -- sung by Johnny M.
• In Praise of Alcohol -- sung by Joel and Charley
• Glanville's Homemade Beer -- sung by Charley R.
• Greenland Whale Fisheries — sung by Paul M. and Hugo G.

They kept singing, but I left. So ask them.