SANCTUARY Diaries

Dec 1

FROM CACOPHONY TO GLORIOUS HARMONY

Back in the early ‘90s, I attended a performance by a philharmonic orchestra conducted by Zubin Mehta. I was alone, and it was my first-ever experience of live classical music.

I sat in the dimly lit auditorium, as approximately 30 musicians tuned their instruments on stage and practiced - their individual efforts seemingly disconnected. It was chaotic and noisy! As they completed their tuning and practice, put down their instruments, and walked off stage, I wondered whether it was going to be a wasted evening! Stuck here for hours instead of being with friends - who at the time couldn’t understand what had possessed me to attend this concert.

Minutes later, the musicians marched back on stage - silently. Shirts tucked in, hair meticulously combed, they picked up their instruments and waited in their positions. The maestro, Zubin Mehta, walked on stage, briefly nodding his head in acknowledgment of the applause which subsided the second he raised his baton and turned his focus toward the orchestra.

Intense silence enveloped the auditorium - I hesitated to breathe, fearing it might disrupt the ambiance. Mehta’s hand gracefully moved the baton - and then it began. The sweetest sound I have ever heard. It washed over me, transporting me to a world of pure harmony and beauty.

In that moment, I witnessed the power of unity. Each instrument, regardless of its individual sound, played its part flawlessly - not competing but collaborating and creating something extraordinary together.

The difference now, from the previous cacophony as they all played their instruments together, was their alertness and response to the direction of the conductor - supporting each other as they came together in a glorious and melodious symphony!

In any musical score, instruments do not have equal parts through the piece - some take the lead, others play in the background - some others remain silent - however, they’re all engaged in the same song!

That is who we, at International Sanctuary, are to the women we work alongside with. Our mission is to help her succeed, whatever it takes! We journey with them to facilitate growth as they discover their worth and then consciously support, encourage, and cheer themselves and each other.

As we enter this wonderful season of giving, I invite you to join us in orchestrating this incredible transformation of women escaping trafficking and help change the score of their lives into a beautiful harmonious tune.

Thank you!

Max Fernand

Executive Director