Such a refreshing conversation with a truly gentle and humble soul. It was short, but so, so insightful, I left feeling inspired. I left this interview feeling as if I have grown in so many ways.
Q. How did you meet Arielle?
A. I first met Arielle while she was filming the documentary about Michael D. McCarty. She was a long time friend of Michael, who he treasured very much.
Q. How did you meet Michael?
A. I met Michael around 1992-ish when he was a devotee of Sai Baba, Michael was hosting a storyteller workshop. Since I was very passionate about storytelling, a mutual friend thought it would be great for us to connect. We sat talking for hours, realizing we had so much in common. Our common thread is our love for storytelling. I now consider him my “big brother”.
Q. What or who inspires you?
A. I had the ability to travel all around the globe with my family. I find the support of my family to be a constant, which has led to understanding the importance of not just my lineage, but my ancestors. I was fortunate to have my great-grandfather live to be 110 years old, he passed away when I was 22 years old. This relationship afforded me the opportunity to learn, to grow in my ability to tell a good story, as well as recognize what makes a really great story. I must say my family is truly what inspires me.
Q. Now that you have seen both films of Michael D. McCarty and Alicia & Antonio, what did you come away with from each of them?
A. Both films show the resilience of the human spirit. They both have grown into their purpose.
Q. What is your background? How did you begin in your career?
A. Although my background began in the corporate sector, I also began teaching history in my spare time. My family has always been involved with volunteerism, and through service I found my true calling in the education of children. I found the education of Indigenous cultures to be more interesting than traditional western educational systems. Indigenous cultures are not just about the flow of words but the flow of rhythms. The classes I began teaching with a more Indigenous focus opened doors around the world well over 27 years ago.
Q. What makes you passionate about storytelling?
A. Developing relationships with people, especially children. I love to see the light in their eyes, when they begin to make a connection with the story.
Q. What gives you hope for the future of humankind?
A. Although you can become disheartened by some of the things man does to his fellow man. What gives me hope are the moments when we do connect. When we show organic ways to give, like a smile or a nod. The sheer acknowledgement of another person's existence, and again that relationship.
It's nice to see Eric "Baba the Storyteller" Cyrs being recognized in the Meet the Neighbors interview! His storytelling ability merits a five star review. His ability to attract listeners with meaningful stories is impressive.