The Beggars on DVD

Ok so i might be a little behind cos this was filmed in July 2006 in London (live on stage). It only got released in Australia in the past month or so.

So anyways for those who havent heard of it im obviously going to recommend you watch this. Not just cos its Assyrian, but because it actually tells a very powerful story. By the way someone from AVN makes a special guest appearance in the opening sequence, but i wont mention who!

Behind the typical Assyrianised one liners from Sami Yako hides a strong yet sometimes controversial political message. Sami Yako has obviously constructed the sceenplay with a lot of thought, more than usual it seems. Its a shame that the audience on this night was very small, the hall was only half full/empty, so i dearly hope every Assyrian grabs it on DVD.

The 'Beggars' refers to the Assyrians in general, but the drama is in relation to the perspective of Assyrians living in our homeland today. Yako calls us 'Beggars', but more so in a metaphorical sense and not in a streetwise sense. The story revolves around 3 Beggars who share a small piece of land in the streets, against it seems, the governments wishes.

To pass time, the Beggars engage in Assyrian conversation surrounding various issues effecting Assyrians today. Now the delicate truth is that alot of Assyrians who watch this drama will believe Yako is taking 'Swipes' at his own people. Well you see, he actually is, but its the true romantics who will actually take light of his words and the meanings behind them. There is also potential for some to be offended by the Church comments. Regardless, you cant deny the fact that Yako is looking to grab his audience by the neck and shake them up a little bit.

However, cleverly, the balance of power is restored at all times as Yako's character Chaba represents one arguement and Mirkoo is more your traditional Assyrian. The government Officials are also an intelligent inclusion. They play pivotal roles in a Q & A session and this is where Yako's political message truly lifts its beautiful face above water, not that it was ever sinking mind you.

Its a shame it has a sad ending, however its yet another strong highlight of just how serious our fight really is.

As i said, i strongly suggest every Assyrian watches this. Not because it provides entertainment and guaranteed laughter, but for what its really about, Yako holds up a mirror to the Assyrian commmunity and makes some very strong points. Please buy it!

JI

Unity?

Disclaimer: Im not taking sides here, im all for Unity so relax. Im just asking questions and would like to know peoples opinions.

Hi everyone,

In light of recent events surrounding the word "Unity" ,which has been thrown around like a rag doll, i thought i should ask a couple of questions, to see what the true meaning of Unity is.

I have to admit that the recent gathering in the name of "Unity" was fairly historical due to the fact that many of those people have not been in the same room or vicinity for a very long time. Sometimes in life, in order to gain something good/positive, we have to endure something a little painful, but the end result is beneficial to all.

Now here is the glitch and im sure most of you are intrigued to know the answer. Wouldnt it have been much more beautiful and beneficial to the cause of the Assyrians and to this newly founded word of "Unity", if ALL Assyrian 'sides' were represented? I mean that is what Unity is all about isnt it, gathering parties which until a certain time have not engaged in meaningful dialogue and interaction. It would have been nice to have some ACOE Church representatives present, be it Priests, Deacons or even Committee members.

Now my question is this. I know that some people out there will say "They were invited", however i know of no official/formal invitation sent to the ACOE or its clergy. This isnt a rumour as im sure some of you will claim. Since in the past the ACOE has had dialogue with the Ancient Church of the East, im sure someone would have been sent to this historical meeting to represent the ACOE. Also, for those of you who say ACOE has never made an effort, try this on for size. The ACOE were regular attendees of the Assyrian Youth meetings which took place on weekends between Fairfield Youth Network leaders, the Chaldean Church and Mar Zaia Church. Father Genard was always present with a few other ACOE members along with Qasha Benyamin and Deacons from the Mar Zaia Church. This was in 2006 and will be continuing this year also.

It seems to me personally, that this "Unity" banner does not welcome the ACOE due to animosity or whatever label you wish to place on it. It seems this "Unity" agenda does not include in anyway the ACOE. Is this based on assumptions? Is this based on a "They wouldnt come anyways" excuse? (Its not like your are inviting people to your wedding knowing they wont come anyways, but hey it would be nice just to invite them so they dont complain.) As we all know, assumption is a very dangerous tool to have in your arsenal.

The other issue i have is this. Recently a few teachers of Mar Narsai Assyrian College, drafted a proposal to Assyrian and Fairfield LGA (Local Government Area) businesses asking for support (financial or otherwise) for a health program for the School, which would see the money/products go towards a breakfast program for the young kids to ensure they receive a healthy breakfast. The response was great and overwhelming and many thanks go out to those who donated. However, an Assyrian Social Organisation (who wont be named) received the letter, tore it up and told people "Were not helping them cos its for Mar Meelis."

Fair enough, however, no where on that document/proposal did it state the name of any Clergy. It was a School initiative for the children but i can see why some Assyrians would think Mar Meelis would pocket the money, paranoia and ignorance are illnesses many cant brush off. So if this well known established Assyrian social organisation who is vocally in support of Mar Bawai reacted in this fashion with those words (and again this is no rumour), my dear friends i ask you where is the Unity in that? Is this simply just another case of a few rogue 'haters' who take it upon themselves to ruin the Unity parade? (Similiar to the recent post about the disturbing threatening letters) Are these just a few people who dont care for the greater good?

If Unity is what everyone is striving for, these little niggly issues need to be swept away, not under the carpet, but totally eroded. This Unity vehicle will soon run out of petrol if efforts are not made to include EVERY Assyrian organisation, be it Religious, Political or Social. Lets see how far people are really willing to go to bring everyone to the table.This rift between '7' and '25' has been long time standing (personally i think everyone should build their bridges and get over it), ever since i was a child, so it will take massive efforts to change Assyrians' hard headed mentalities but yes, bringing everyone into the same room with effective mature communication avenues is a great start, but as i mentioned earlier, it would be great if everyone was there or else there is no point.

To finish off id like to say that Unity is only achieved if you show respect. If you resort to threats (verbal and physical), name calling, swearing, arrogance and hatred, then there isnt much hope is there? So if you sit there and swear at Church clergy or call them names or write letters of threats and insults, where is your intention of Unity? Cos as hard as i look i cant see it. I have seen alot of on this Forum in particular which saddens me cos its not our Fathers that are doing it, but us Youth. I have also seen it in documents, letters, emails and faxes. If everyone shows love to each other, then yes, thats the platform for Unity, thats the foundation for the first steps.

Showing love isnt 'Gay'.

Thanks
JI