Remembering Rumi

The great mystic poet Mevlana Jelaleddin Rumi died 750 years ago on December 17th, 1273, a date known to his followers as his ‘wedding day’. The Mevlevi Dervishes whirl each year on that day in his honor. This year is special. Thousands of pilgrims will gather near Rumi’s tomb in Konya for the occasion.

Hopefully dozens of us will gather at Bryson Gym at Warren Wilson College on Sunday evening December 17th. We will listen to Rumi’s poetry, interwoven with music. Those who wish will whirl, with some guidance. Extra guidance will be offered before the event at a short whirling workshop.

RUMI’S POETRY: read by Laura Hope Gill

MUSIC: played by River Guergerian & Chris Rosser

WHIRLING: guided by Erik Bendix

All you need for whirling is a little humility and a pair of socks. You can expect some dizziness, but only as you find the center you spin around, and taste what is constant beyond all the changes you see. This is a path of heart and soul. Dervishes say we are all dizzy on this spinning world, and only by whirling can we see it straight. Please join us, to either witness or take part, as you wish.

All are welcome.

DATE: Sunday, December 17th, 2023

TIMES: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. (whirling workshop 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.)

PLACE: Bryson Gym, Warren Wilson College

COST: $15 to $45 suggested donation. Children and those in wheelchairs free.

REGISTER: by December 10th please