Tuesday, March 16, 2010

World Music

This week we have been fortunate enough to get our hands on this CD from Oxfam
which has brought some beautiful music from all over the world into our home. We listen to a lot of music, and at our resting times are always after something special. This Dreamland CD is made up of traditional lullabies from Australia, Canada, South America, Scotland, South Africa and many more cultures. They are beautiful and authentic and we love them!

I hope in the future that our family can get out and see more of the world..... the way people live in other cultures, the simple things like food and music and community life. I know that for us this season is a home season, so in the meantime I'm always seeking ways to bring the world to us. The children and I have been pouring over books from other cultures, looking at pictures, reading Compassion stories and writing letters to our sponsor children, and listening to this CD this week. :) The kids are always asking "where is this song from" - which in turn leads us to look at the globe or pull out the atlas.

They need to know how blessed they are to live in Australia - what a safe, beautiful, affluent culture they are part of. And to know that we can learn so much from people who come from other places. Already I can see the seeds of inspiration being sown to want to see more of the world - and to do what they can to make it a better place for those who have so much less than they do.

If you're in Australia and are interested in looking for an alternative when it comes to gift shopping, check out the Oxfam shop here. Handmade crafts from all over the world, and a substantial portion of the profits go back to the people who actually made them. Lots of fair trade toys and jewellery, and coffee and chocolate as well!

2 comments:

Queen of the Natives said...

We also love the Putumayo Kids!!! we have African Dreamland and it's so beautiful and is treasured here at bedtimes. It always makes me feel like it truly is a beautiful life.

We are so fortunate here in Oz, especially you Min, living a lovely, quiet life out there :) (it's gotta have its little bit of crazy when you come into town peace lovin' Mumma). Amazed how you still manage to get to MM. Will must be having a rockin' time there now?!

Love to you
xo JM

SF said...

Hehe, yes indeed he is Jane. :) He really loves it - and interestingly, the others participate more now that there are 3 there together.... safety in numbers, right?! We only get there once a fortnight though, as much as I'd love to take them every week. :) xo

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