June 18, 2023 will mark 40 years since 10 Baha’i women were hanged in Shiraz. Their only ‘crime’ was their refusal to renounce their beliefs in a faith that promotes the principles of gender equality, unity, justice, and truthfulness. This collection highlights Baha’i Blog content relating to the ongoing persecution of Baha’is in Iran.
Hello and welcome to the Baha’i Blogcast with me your host, Rainn Wilson.
In this series of podcasts I interview members of the Baha’i Faith and friends from all over the world about their hearts, and minds, and souls, their spiritual journeys, what they’re interested in, and what makes them tick.
In this episode I interview Andy Grammer and his wife Aijia. We talk about how they met and what married life is like, the evolution of their careers, having a baby in the kitchen, trying to ‘keep it real’ in all that you do, tests and perseverance, songwriting, death and loss, becoming a Baha’i, their favourite Baha’i quotes, plus they even sing Aija’s favourite quote for us at the end of the podcast.
Here is the quote by Baha’u’llah from the Hidden Words that Andy refers to:
“O SON OF EARTH! Know, verily, the heart wherein the least remnant of envy yet lingers, shall never attain My everlasting dominion, nor inhale the sweet savors of holiness breathing from My kingdom of sanctity.”
And here is the reference to the quote that Aijia refers to which they sing:
“Whatever is done in love is never any trouble, and – there is always time.” Abdu’l-Baha was reported to have said this in 1908. This quote is taken from “Daily Lessons Received at Akka, January 1908” (page 42) by Helens S. Goodall and Ella Goodall Cooper.
Through 15 years of experience, Laura has honed a growing repertoire as a producer and media artist. Her media skills include film production, video editing and photography and as a producer she has led numerous creative projects, as well as managed and organized small and large scale events. Laura also helps deliver content to audiences through compelling and effective digital strategies including marketing approaches through design and web products. She currently lives in Toronto, Canada with her two children.
Andy- can I just say how HAPPY I was to hear you drop the f-bomb??? Sharing your truth is SO IMPORTANT because otherwise we are just walking hypocrites helping no-one. I struggle with this exact issue as I talk about sex within the Baha’i community. How much do I share of my own journey? How much is too much? How real do I get? And I think I’m coming to the same conclusion as you- it’s never too real (maybe a bit too TMI but that’s different). And about porn lyric?? I gave you a standing ovation when I heard that. It’s a major issue within the Baha’i community that no one is talking about- and shame is the WORST thing for change. It’s simply paralyzing. So I raise my glass (full of water- of course 😉 to you and thank-you from the bottom of my heart for your courage to be REAL. I’m inspired, encouraged and ready to share my truth along with ya!
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Putting into music the quote of Abdul Baha was really inspiring.
Criselda R. Figuerres (August 8, 2016 at 3:27 PM)
Andy- can I just say how HAPPY I was to hear you drop the f-bomb??? Sharing your truth is SO IMPORTANT because otherwise we are just walking hypocrites helping no-one. I struggle with this exact issue as I talk about sex within the Baha’i community. How much do I share of my own journey? How much is too much? How real do I get? And I think I’m coming to the same conclusion as you- it’s never too real (maybe a bit too TMI but that’s different). And about porn lyric?? I gave you a standing ovation when I heard that. It’s a major issue within the Baha’i community that no one is talking about- and shame is the WORST thing for change. It’s simply paralyzing. So I raise my glass (full of water- of course 😉 to you and thank-you from the bottom of my heart for your courage to be REAL. I’m inspired, encouraged and ready to share my truth along with ya!
Janna Denton-Howes (October 10, 2016 at 7:25 PM)
For those wondering how much sharing is enough — Passage #130 in Gleanings may be informative.
David Garrett (December 12, 2017 at 12:40 AM)
Delightful!
Keith J. Taylor (February 2, 2019 at 3:31 PM)
Blessings and continuing joy to you for your good work! Andy and Rainn too
Lionel Pinn (April 4, 2019 at 12:48 PM)
Thank you so much for your support and encouragement Lionel! 🙂
Naysan Naraqi (April 4, 2019 at 12:51 AM)