A Bi-Weekly Podcast with host Fatemeh Keshavarz
In this program I speak of Rumi’s vision on giving thanks. Describing “patience” and “gratitude” as the twin roads to contentment, Rumi points to our capacity for anticipation as a great source of strength. “The one who has sensed the scent of the rose,” he says ” will dance all the way to the garden.”
In this program, I focus on a celebrated poem of Rumi which tries to help us make sense of the journey that is our life. The poem is filled with enchanting images and life-changing questions. Are we a rare bird sitting in the royal aviary, Jacob separated from his Joseph, or the Greek philosopher, lamp in hand, looking for a perfect being? And, what does dancing have to do with these?
Rumi’s approach to understanding oneself in a deeper sense. At times, he looks beyond speaking, beyond describing us with words. He encourages us to explore the mystery of who we are, and through that, the mystery of the universe that houses and nurtures us. A wordless poetic journey!
Opening song: Arayesh e ghaliz, Homayun Shajarian
Producer: Sogand Seirafi
Graphic Designer: Amaal Yazdi
Editorial Consultant: Faezeh Lotfalian
Project Manager: Samar Ata
Audio editing: Tommy Hegarty
Technical assistance is provided by the Center for Innovation in Teaching at Learning, University of Maryland
The program starts with the significance of Rumi’s poetry in Iranian culture and Fatemeh Keshavarz’s encounter with this poetry from early childhood. Rumi’s poetry and personality are described through anecdotes from his life and examples from his poetry.
Radio Rumi is hosted by Dr. Fatemeh Keshavarz at the University of Maryland. In this bi monthly series, Dr. Keshavarz explores Rumi’s words and invites the listener to enter his vibrant universe and see with fresh eyes.
Opening song: Arayesh e ghaliz, Homayun Shajarian
Producer: Sogand Seirafi
Graphic Designer: Amaal Yazdi
Editorial Consultant: Faezeh Lotfalian
Project Manager: Samar Ata
Audio editing: Tommy Hegarty
Technical assistance is provided by the Center for Innovation in Teaching at Learning, University of Maryland