The busker

My dear Friends
I haven't been too well lately, but I am hoping to do another Concert for Peace and Reconciliation in about three weeks' time. I wanted to tell you about someone who has been a great inspiration to me down the years. i won't tell you her name but just that she is about my age, with fine silvery hair and a black coat, which she wears on her daily busking trips in Cambridge.

Her voice is low, because of her smoking but still fine and clear and she has an enviable range of songs, with quite a lot of Bob Dylan in there. Go away from my window otherwise known as it ain't me babe, is one of her stock in trade. She sings it with a poignancy which brings tears to your eyes.

Her strumming style is much to be envied. I usually use the same technique but hers is varied according to the song and mood of the piece. Blowing in the wind which I do too is in there, and it rings out over the streets of Cambridge and the alleyways where she sings, tucked in between coffee shops.

She varies her pitch and i don't know if this attracts more or less custom but she usually earns enough for coffee and sandwiches and sometimes more. And there is always the satisfaction of knowing that people are listening to the music, even if they don't put money in the hat.

She is a real feature in these parts, going out daily to do her thing. She has been an inspiration and a friend in times of need, sharing a fag and sharing her song-long may it go on.

Shalom from
Sister Gila

Remebrance Sunday

My dear Friends

Remembrance Sunday is a very important day. The chance to remember and pray for the ones we have lost,but not quite forever. The two minute silence observed all over the world is a sign of solidarity and hope. We have lost so many over the centuries to war and conflict, but hopefully now is a time of renewal and strength. More later.

Shalom from
Sister Gila

The Feast of Tabernacles.

My dear Friends
Recently the Jewish community celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles. It was a very joyful occasion and I met many of my old Friends who seemed pleased to see me. At the end of the service the story of Creation was read out and different people were called up to receive a blessing. We also danced with Torah scrolls and the children came up also to receive a blessing.My friend Jane Liddell King who writes for the Jewish chronicle was there and together we prayed and sang.

Altogether an interesting time and one which recalls the dwelling of the children of Israel in booths in the wilderness.People erect booths and sit in them, having decorated them with fruits and flowers.

Shalom for now
Sister Gila