In the many years of doing this work, I have witnessed a multitude of misunderstandings, lack of awareness, and misguided decisions that ultimately harm the very organization that is trying to seek funding. It is with this in mind that I present this work as a means to help any nonprofit (new or not) to make more constructive strategic decisions that will make a foundation or large donor feel comfortable with contributing to your cause.

This book will not go over the way in which you should manage your day-to-day operations. What it will cover are the basics for starting a nonprofit, the critical factors that involve governance, how to approach fundraising, and lastly the grant funding process. This book consists of a Start-Up Guide, and four parts: Governance, Fundraising, Planning a Fundraising Event, and Grants. This will help you to find the sections that you need to focus on so that you can strengthen and improve your efforts. Ultimately resulting in increased funding for your organization.

Download the book here:

Nonprofit Basics Book

I could also go into how shellshocked I was to be listened to and taken seriously when we went to their medical system for some testing. This was when I realized I had full-fledged PTSD from American healthcare. It was shocking to be treated with such care, attention, and to be listened to the first time. I just want to say one thing to the people of Argentina: Vos quiero mucho. Siempre tendrás un gran pedazo de mi corazón.

Conversations were plenty and I would find myself stopped by strangers on the street regularly who wanted to chat. They are so social and welcoming. Sometimes, they would get so excited that I spoke English that they would insist on speaking English just so they could practice. I, on the other hand, wanted to practice my Spanish. So, our conversations went like this: they spoke to me in English, and I responded in Spanish. Everyone got to practice. On top of it all, I would have experiences like walking on the sidewalk and seeing a waiter that I only met once at a restaurant. When passing, they would wave and say hello with a huge smile as if we were best friends. It was so nice. More importantly, it felt like a small town in such a large city.

To this day, I still listen to Argentine music multiple times a week. I love this country so much. However, we are here today to talk about a very unique Argentine folklorico dance called Malambo.

The Music

First, the music. You will notice in each of the different videos that the dance is done to the same music or something quite similar each time. The music is performed with Argentino bombo (bass drum) and guitar. More complex arrangements include flute, violin, and accordion. With or without the special drumming, you will hear this common theme:

What is Malambo?

Malambo is a traditional dance founded by the gauchos of South America. Gauchos are what Americans would call cowboys, except the cowboys in South America are quite different than their North American counterparts. The style of clothing, music, and entertainment is completely different.

Many of these dances were performed after long days riding horseback as they gathered around a campfire in the pampas. Today, it is one of the most competitive dances in the region and Argentinian gauchos take this competition very seriously. Children learn this dance from very young ages, and it is not uncommon to see a toddler on the stage in many of these competitions. They are quite adorable to watch because they take it so seriously.

Why would they look so serious? Well, Malambo is not just dancing technique, but also demonstration of strength and bravado. The dancers puff their chests, and in many ways, one can see how horses have inspired the dance. The way their feet paw at the ground often mimics that of a horse preparing to race. The complex footwork and beauty of the dance’s fluid movements heighten the tension in these intense competitive faceoffs. It’s like battle, but with dance.

Argentina is a very large country and as such, there are stylistic differences between the northern and southern regions. There are two Malambo styles: el norteño “the northern” and el sureño “the southern.” The Norteño style derived from the barefoot Sureño tradition. The footwear difference in the north was a direct correlation to the introduction of boots from the Spaniards who arrived on their shores. Each type has a different musical accompaniment. Malambo Norteño has more forceful stomping (likely because of the boots) and a faster tempo. Malambo Sureño has gentler footwork (performed barefoot) and a much slower tempo.

Below is a solo example of Malambo Norteño.

Now compare that video to the following example demonstrating both in contrast. Note that not only is the footwear different, so is the dress.

Boleadoras

In addition to the fancy footwork seen so far, you will see additional aspects added to these competitions that include dancing with drums and bolas. Bolas are a type of throwing weapon that has weights on either end of an interconnected cord. These weapons were used to capture animals in order to entangle their legs and preventing them from escape. Used frequently by the gauchos, these weapons are also commonly associated with pre-colonization settlements, especially by the Tehuelche, the indigenous people of Patagonia. The Tehuelche would use the bolas to catch large animals such as guanacos and rheas. The Mapuche warriors used bolas in battle with the Chilean Army during the occupation of Araucanía (1861-1883). They were also used by the Incan armies.

Gauchos used boleadoras to capture cattle that were in motion or wild game. The mechanism by which they would use these weapons relied upon a swinging momentum and then releasing them to entangle the legs of the animal. However, they can cause real damage if thrown with enough force.

Why are we talking about weapons? Well, in Malambo, they dance with them. The video below is from an international ballet festival competition where the dance group Malevo Malambo demonstrates the three different aspects of malambo dance: dancing with drums, the fast footwork as we saw previously, and dancing with baleadoras.

Folk Competitions

As mentioned previously, this is a highly competitive “sport” in Argentina and it isn’t exclusive to the men. As we can see in the video below, the women are just as competitive.

The standoff. Below is what it looks like when there is a solo standoff at a competition between two highly skilled performers. Ok, it’s not a standoff. It’s a “tie-breaker.” Same thing. I mean, this is Malambo. Of course it’s a standoff. Enjoy the athleticism demonstrated by these excellent dancers.

Competition and Other Venues

If you ever find yourself in Argentina, don’t worry if you can’t attend one of these Malambo Festival competitions. Luckily, nearly all Tango shows include a segment of Malambo. So, you can easily find an opportunity to see this incredibly athletic dance in person. I was fortunate enough to accidently come upon a group rehearsing as I was walking down the street one day in Buenos Aires. I watched them from outside the windows of the dance studio. It was a delight.

To wrap up, I’ll leave you with a few more samples of competitions demonstrating the two different styles we have discussed before.

Sureño vs. Norteño

I added this group just because I really like their performance.

Gracias por vos tiempo y espero que hayas disfrutado mucho del Malambo. ¡Que tengás un buen día y hasta la próxima!

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References

https://audienceaccess.co/bio/nitc-46527

Malambo: Argentine dance from the pampas goes global | Buenos Aires Times

https://www.folkloredelnorte.com.ar/malambo.htm

EL MALAMBO – El arcón de la historia Argentina

https://opticanaranjo.com.ar/malambo-norteno-lento/

Everyone has their own reasons for wanting a better life. Some go for job opportunities. Others move for family. Some move for safety. Whatever your reason, if you are genuinely ready to make the leap to leave the USA, I can help you.

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I had friends try to tell me 5 years ago that I should offer this type of service, and I dismissed it. It’s so complicated and frustrating and more importantly, I need to deal with people who are committed. It is difficult enough dealing with the hoops and curveballs that countries can throw at you without also having to deal with people who aren’t committed to taking action and doing the work.

I left for many reasons. I left before Trump was ever elected the first time, so my reasons had nothing to do with who was President. I saw my country becoming more and more dangerous as the years went on. I spent decades navigating all manner of systems and seeing the cracks in the veneer. I saw the attitudes and the callousness. More importantly, I wanted safety for my children. That was #1 for me. I committed my efforts to helping my country and to those who were also helping to make the country a better place. I did this remotely so that I could maintain my sanity, while helping those who were in the trenches dealing with the tragedies first-hand. I had already been doing it while stateside, but it truly took a toll on my health.

I can honestly tell you that it took about 3 years after leaving the USA to recover from all of the traumas I had endured there. Not being hypervigilant. Not panicking over everything. It was honestly shocking to see my own responses when in contrast to other countries who were simply calm and confused why I would have such a response. Unlearning that trauma response took a long time and it also helped me to realize how damaging my experience in my own country had truly been.

Now, I put peace above all else. I eat healthy food and have affordable access to healthcare whenever I need it. I have safety everywhere I’ve gone. I’ve met so much kindness and people who were so eager to assist me when navigating so many new places and systems. I learned a lot of things that surprised me and some even shocked me. There is so much to learn and know and I know the biggest concern most people have before taking such a leap is the unknown. It’s scary to jump off the cliff. I get it.

After much contemplation, I have decided to offer a small opening for a very limited number of people who are seriously interested in getting assistance to move abroad. If this is you, please schedule a call at the link below. There is a consultation fee of $200 for the call as there will be much discussed. If after the call, you wish to pursue moving, I can provide a customized plan and personal assistance for your move.

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Once you have scheduled your call and made your payment, please complete the questionnaire that will be emailed to you. This must be completed before your scheduled call. Please be as thorough as you can so that we can use your consultation time wisely. If you know someone else who might need these services, please feel free to share this article with them.

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This is a country with a rich and complicated history. One thing that has always remained is their identity as Albanians and their folk traditions have lasted through centuries of varying empires ruling these lands, including one of the strictest dictatorships of the last century.

What I love about this country (there are many things, really), is that they deeply know who they are and they have always been welcoming to the stranger. They have provided shelter for the Jews who were running from Hitler. They continue to provide opportunities for anyone willing to make an effort to become part of their community. I feel so welcome here, and I love the food. I’ve been adopted by so many shopkeepers who don’t even know my name. We are treated as family now. Although my personal heritage is German American, a part of me is really starting to feel Albanian, if I even dare say such a thing. Not sure I’m worthy yet. I’m still learning. To the Albanians: Faleminderit Shqipëri që mirëprite familjen time.

To start things off, please enjoy this delightful traditional performance that gives you a taste of what is to come.

Albanian Opera Singer Meets Hollywood

Before we go into the history and the complexity of their UNESCO heritage music and modern convergence of folk and techno, among others, I think it is also important to mention that the famous Diva song from the 1997 film “The Fifth Element” was sung by Albanian opera singer, Inva Mula. The real name of the song is “Il Dolce Suono” from the opera Lucia di Lammermoor by Donizetti. In the opera, this scene is where Lucia falls into madness. It is her wedding night. Although the festivities carry on in the Great Hall, she stabs her new husband (Arturo) in their bridal chamber. Unaware of what she has done, she roams the crowd in the Great Hall reminiscing of her beloved Edgardo, imagining herself married to him. In the film, “The Fifth Element,” the name Edgardo is changed to Esther.

As with many of the world-class musicians I’ve found here in Albania, Inva is definitely among them. Take a listen.

Albanian History

Albanian history is ancient, and as such their roots aren’t entirely clear. However, archeological and anthropological studies have collected data that lead many researchers to believe that the Albanians are the direct descendants of the ancient Illyrian tribes. Linguistically, their language is the most unique of the Indo-European languages.

The Illyrians date back to the stone age and their historic presence in what is now known as Albania dates back to the Bronze Age. So, this is a very ancient culture. In fact, the town I’m in now, Shkodër, is over 4,000 years old and it dates back to the Bronze Age. Founded by the Illyrian tribe of Labeatae in the 4th century BCE, it is the oldest city in Albania and has been continuously inhabited the entire time.

There are ancient castles and ruins throughout these lands, including those of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the architecture from the Ottoman Empire. After 500 years of Ottoman rule, they finally gained their independence as their own nation in 1912. They even had a king, King Zog. He was Albania’s only king (although there were Illyrian kings centuries before) and he ruled from 1922-1939. Born in 1895, he became the country’s Prime Minister at the age of 27, later becoming the country’s President. Eventually, they declared him, King. In 1939, Mussolini declared Albania an Italian Protectorate under King Victor Emmanuel III. As a result, Zog was forced to flee and spend the rest of his life in exile.

On November 29, 1944, Albania was liberated from Italian protectorate statehood by the National Liberation Movement. The Anti-Fascist National Liberation Council became the provisional government of the country. This party was heavily dominated by the two-year-old Communist Party of Albania. Enver Hoxha, the party’s first secretary, eventually became the country’s Prime Minister. This government was an openly Communist party, which was a common theme among the European Eastern Bloc at the time. As history has shown, these Communist parties began as part of a coalition government for a few years before they eventually took complete control and created one-party states. Albania’s one-party state was the most extreme. Many liken it to having been the North Korea of Europe, for modern day reference.

It is worth noting that before the Communist Party seized full control over the country, there was an additional party that was very nationalist, called the Balli Kombëtar. The nationalist party was sidelined and eventually became a Nazi-Germany established puppet-government, which was part of the German occupation of Albania. They fought against communist groups in Albania.

Let me just say this, the communists and the fascists were not the same groups. They fought against one-another and the communist party won. They were all Albanian. They are all devoted to their country. They are all devoted to their culture. However, there was influence surrounding them by many fascists throughout Europe as well as other communist movements in their neighboring countries. The most fascinating thing for me was that their leader, Enver Hoxha, was so similar to many extreme leaders in that he was convinced that they were going to be invaded by some kind of enemy. As a result, he had more than 750,000 bunkers built in random places all over the entire nation for the citizens to seek refuge should an invasion occur. These bunkers are randomly found in places like the mountains, the beach, and just some random spot in a field or in the middle of a city. You’re just walking around and, “Hey look! It’s another bunker!”

These two were found along a sidewalk partway under the patio of a restaurant in Durrës, next to the beach. Clearly someone thought painting them would make them more interesting. I took this photo in June 2020.

This one was in a cliff along one of the highways and another on the beach.

Albanians were not allowed to leave the country during Hoxha’s reign. They were completely isolated from the rest of the world. As a result, their culture was reinforced and remained untouched. Additionally, cars were banned in the country. Most people walked or used bicycles. This may also play a role as to why the regions are so diverse and traditions so unique in each region. Below is a video showing some their traditional music and dance during the dictatorship in 1984. To this day, you will still see performances like this in Albania. In fact, when I see this video, it trips me out a bit because I’ve been to that National Museum behind them in one of the scenes and it looks the same today. Identical, actually. the only thing that has changed is that the area around it, called Skanderbeg Square, has grown and there are more buildings now. The painting on the top of the museum is exactly the same in 2025. The same can be said about Kruja Castle in the other scene.

Iso-Polyphony

Iso-polyphony is a UNESCO sanctioned musical heritage unique to Albania. I will admit, there will be many videos relating to this topic alone simply because each region has their own style. The video below gives you a small sampling and a smidge of the history and the different styles.

What is iso-polyphony? It’s a traditional multipart singing style that includes two separate melodic lines sung simultaneously and frequently paired with a drone part that is either percussive in nature or continuous. This distinct combination of voices lends to a very powerfully unique harmonic sound. The songs convey the history of the people, emotions, and their cultural identity. Passed on for generations, it was declared by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2005.

This recording is one of my favorite samples. I really recommend listening with headphones in order to deeply feel the richness of the polyphonic sounds.

As mentioned in the first video from UNESCO, there is a distinct geographic separation in the types of music from the north and the south of Albania. I’m currently in the north, which is known as the Gheg region. The music in this region boasts of heroic epics and songs of bravery telling tales of Albanian invasions over the centuries. These rugged ballads are grand in nature when in comparison to the music of the south. In the south, you will find the Labs and Tosks, which have softer, more relaxed and gentle music.

There are influences from external sources, such as the Ottoman Turks in their music, as well as in their architecture and food. However, their folk music has managed to retain its own identity distinct from external influence, especially in the mountain villages, where you will find the oldest sounds and traditions.

The mountainous regions of Albania have very small villages where the locals are isolated from the rest of the country. Many of them have no roads to their homes. They walk through the mountainous terrain through the forest and call to their neighbors with unique sounds, as we see in the video below. As you can imagine, music in this region is very unique and offers them communion with one another. It’s connection and love. More importantly, this video also gives you a deep glimpse into the culture and the way they are unconcerned about religion when it comes to being in community. Albania is truly one of the most accepting countries I have ever encountered. You will see a mosque right next door to a Catholic church. You will see women in modern clothes, next to a nun in full regalia, and later a woman in a full burka. No one bothers anyone. All are respected.

This is a collage of three songs from the ancient Albanian tradition of the pre-Ottoman Turk rule. Lyrics in old Albanian Tosk dialect below:

Rina, Rina ti ku vajte luli o?
Luli-o lulëza ime, zëmra moj
Zëmëra më këndon.

Nëna ime vajti për ujë luli o
Luli-o lulëza ime, zëmra moj
Zëmëra më këndon.

E bija ime moj
Ja uji tek ku është.
E bija ime moj
Ja uji tek ku është.

Nëna ime m’u ça buza luli o
Luli-o lulëza ime, zëmra moj
Zëmëra më këndon.

Doli dielli dhe ma dogji luli o
Luli-o lulëza ime, zëmra moj
Zëmëra më këndon.

E bija ime moj
Ja dielli tek ku është
E bija ime moj
Ja dielli tek ku është
Dhe zemra më këndon.

Translation: Rina, Rina, where did you go, flower? Flower-o my flower, my heart My heart sings to me. My mother went for water Flower-o my flower, my heart My heart sings to me. My daughter, where is the water? My daughter, where is the water? My mother, my lip split Flower-o my flower, my heart My heart sings to me. The sun came out and burned my flower-o Flower-o my flower, my heart My heart sings to me. My daughter, where is the sun? My daughter, where is the sun? And my heart sings to me.

I realize that this article is long, so I will leave you with the following 47 minute documentary on the depth of the iso-polyphony and monophony unique to this country. I personally can never get enough of this culture and their traditions. It really warms my heart, and I love the people of Albania so much.

Modern meets tradition

Albanians really do perform their traditional songs and dances all the time throughout this country. Every single national holiday, celebration, wedding, funeral, or any other excuse to get together, they are performing these songs. They are also making music videos and have many performances on their local tv stations and theaters. The video below is one example of taking the tradition into the modern music video. After this video, I will then dive into modern popular culture and the ways in which they have expanded since opening up to the world and how uniquely they blend modern with tradition.

Shkodra Electronike

2025’s Eurovision entrant from Albania was Shkodra Electronike. This unique group blends techno with iso-polyphonic singing. I have fallen in love with this group and listen to them regularly. Their music is so unique and definitely motivating. I truly respect the vocals and unique style that they bring.

Eugent Bushpepa

Eugent is an example of how Albanians are catching up from the music they were denied during the dictatorship. He is a rock singer and, one of the best I’ve ever heard. We were in Albania in 2018 when I first found out about Eurovision (I know, I was late to the party). More importantly, it was the year that Eugent Bushpepa performed for Albania. To this day, I will never forgive Eurovision for not giving him the trophy. He is phenomenal. Such a spectacular musician. My guess is that Eurovision spectators couldn’t understand the language, which is a tragedy. People shouldn’t be forced to sing the same language to compete. He does sing songs in English, but this one is stunning in his native language, Shqip.

A full performance set just in case you need more. I always need more of Eugent’s singing. He is right up there with the best of the 80’s rockers as far as I’m concerned. In fact, if you look him up on YouTube, you will find many recordings of him singing songs from America’s best, including She’s Gone by Steelheart, Thunderstruck by AC/DC and A Whole Lot of Love by Led Zepplin.

Elvana Gjata

Elvana is Albania’s princess, or at least that’s how I’ve seen her referred to in various places. I first discovered her the same year I discovered Eugent. The song that got my attention (and I still adore) is Me Fal, which I highly recommend you take a moment to hear. You won’t regret it. It’s very beautiful. However, we are here today to discuss the merging of tradition and modern, and this song below is exactly that.

Additionally, Kuz e zi je ti is another song of hers that Albanians as a whole have adopted as their national song when it comes to celebrating anything they are proud of, especially their futbol wins. You have to admit, it’s quite compelling. She also merged folk and modern in this epic song.

Alis

One of the things that I love about music in Albania is that it often sings about the things that are most important in life: family, community, love, and valuing life. The song below is the entry for Albania’s 2026 Eurovision entrant, Alis. Alis is a popular singer that I’ve recently discovered. This song is about a mother missing her son and waiting for his return.

Among important songs, there is a legend of a walled in woman who was immured in Rozafa Castle here in Shkodra. You can learn more about the legend here, as it is a common storyline found throughout the Balkans in different structures. Immurement in the Balkans is widespread and a curious history that has spurned legends throughout these lands. In fact, the song below was about that immured woman in Rozafa Castle.

I could honestly keep going with the massive numbers of incredible artists that this country boasts, many of them hail from the city I am in now. In fact, their 2026 Eurovision entrant is also from here. Not only is it the oldest city in the country, it’s also the arts and culture capital of the country. I rather do like it here. Want to take a look at the city? This video gives you a nice, picturesque view of my current daily views.

Faleminderit dhe mirupafshim!!

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Huminodun

Origination

Huminodun originated from the Dusun people, indigenous to Sabah. The Dusun people are one of several Kadazan ethnicities. The Kadazan language encompasses various ethnicities indigenous to the region. So, the term Kadazan is used to include all ethnicities who speak the language or a similar version of the language.

Religion

Although frequently referred to as a legend or narrative of folklore, Huminodun is actually a religious observance in the Kadazan communities of Sabah. As found in cultures around the world, religious beliefs center around the concept of Gods to explain the incredible experiences and elements in the world that they did not understand. Similar to the pantheon of Gods in many ancient cultures and their various creation stories, the Kadazan culture also has its own pantheon of Gods, which is seen in their own creation story. Although the Kadazan culture never reached the heights of similar cultures like the Inca, Egyptian, Yoruba, Greek, or Roman civilizations, they also had a god-creator who was named Kinoingan. Kinoingan would be the equivalent of Inti, Ra, Olodumare, Zeus, and Jupiter.

When Christian missionaries first attempted to evangelize the region, they soon realized that in order to shift the Kadazans to believe in their God, they would have to borrow the name Kinoingan in order to teach them about the Christian God when they translated the Bible into the Kadazan language. In other words, as we see in many examples, indigenous beliefs were taken and Christianized in order to subjugate them into the colonizers’ system to make them easier to control.

Huminodun is thought to have been the founder of Momolianism, the religion of the various Kadazan peoples. Momolianism, as seen with many indigenous religions, worships nature. More specifically, it is one of the numerous religions worldwide that practice animism, the belief that all creatures, places, an inanimate objects have a spiritual essence that gives them agency and free will.

The Story

Kinoingan lived with his wife Suminundu in a heaven called Libabou and also in the world of man called Pomogunanhad. They had one son named Ponompulan and one daughter named Ponompuanand. Although the world of man was free from all sins and was very beautiful, Suminundu created the earth. When Ponompulan started to rebel, he corrupted the minds of mankind and was banished from heaven. He then created his own underworld called Kolungkud. His followers from mankind were then cursed with a famine. In order to end the curse their daughter Ponompuanand offered herself as a sacrifice ordered by her own father. She was then named Huminodun, which means transferred sacrifice. She then said to her father:

My body will give rise to all sorts of edible plants to feed the people. My flesh will give rise to rice, my head—the coconut, my bones—tapioca, my toes—ginger, my teeth—maize and my knees—yams. Our people will never go hungry again.

It was from Huminodun’s sacrifice that Bambazon, the spirit of the rice, had sprung. Following the sacrifice, the people experienced the most bountiful harvest that year. However, Kinoingan was greatly distraught and sorrowful for having lost his only daughter. As a result, he slashed through the paddy fields destroying the plants until the voice of his daughter spoke to him saying, “please stop hurting me further.”

He was then instructed to gather seven of the tallest stalks and tie them together, cut them, and bring them to his home and place each one in a jar. Comforted by the voice of his daughter, he did as instructed. One day, Kinoingan and his wife suddenly heard noises coming from the jars. Upon opening the jars, they saw seven brightly shining maidens, including his daughter. Her light was brighter than the sun. Her resurrection fulfilled her promise when her spirit emerged from the jar. The people commemorate her sacrifice and resurrection for her bravery, strength, grace and beauty in the annual beauty pageant, Unduk Ngadau.

There are a few variations of this story told from different communities, but the overall theme is one of sacrifice and beauty. In another variation, it was Sinakagon a demi-God who sacrificed her. This story began momolianism, an animist-pagan religion. This is also what founded the Bobolians who taught the rites, rituals, and ceremonies, traditions, taboos, as well as the gong-beating art and Sumazau dance.

The legend has inspired music and films.

The Kadazans celebrate the Ka’amatan or harvest festival to pay homage to Bambazon to ensure a bountiful harvest annually. During the ceremony, a maiden is selected who represents immaculate virtues and resplendent beauty (the beauty pageant winner) to reflect those of Huminodun. She is selected to honor Huminodun and is declared an Unduk Ngadau or Zenith of the Sun.

The film that was released in 2024 was produced with very little embellishments to ensure the story remained in close alignment with the way Sabahans tell their own stories with their own voices and in their own language. This was in following the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association’s version.

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References

Ismail, Melissa Suraya (1 June 2022). “Unduk Ngadau, The Beauty Pageant Of The Sabahans”. The Rakyat Post. Archived from the original on 1 June 2022. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

Hong Chieh, Yow (30 May 2024). “What Is Kaamatan and Why Is It Celebrated?”. Explore AirAsia. Archived from the original on 24 April 2025. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2024/12/02/sabahan-film-sinakagon-makes-netflix-debut-this-month/

Huminodun - Wikipedia

The Huminodun Story in Sabah | Hello Sabah

The Mystical Origin of the Kadazandusun - Huminodun

Tuesday Tale #37: The Legend of Hominodun – Tuyang

https://www.bharian.com.my/bhplus-old/2015/09/83875/legenda-huminodun

The Legend of Huminodun

Barlocco, Fausto (2011). "A Tale of Two Celebrations: The Pesta Kaamatan as a Site of Struggle between a Minority and the State in Sabah, East Malaysia". Asian Journal of Social Science. 39 (5): 605–626. doi:10.1163/156853111X609266. ISSN 1568-4849.

"The Legend of Huminodun"

Download the musical score

Yoruba

Originating out of southwestern Nigeria and extending into portions of Togo and Benin. The Yoruba homeland consists of a modern population that exceeds 60 million people. You can learn more about this region and the origins of Yorubaland in the video below:

Orishas

Orishas are known as spirits who reflect supreme divinity. Human-like manifestations of God-like creatures. They are known to have lived as human beings on earth and to have lived in the spiritual world. Some are known as humans who have been recognized as deities as a result of their extraordinary feats. Many orishas were brought to the Americas via the Atlantic slave trade and are now expressed in variations of the Yoruba religion such as: Santería, Candomblé, Trinidad Orisha, Umbanda, and Oyotunji, and more.

Those who follow the Orishas, believe that their lives depend on aligning with one’s ori. Ori translates to head, but spiritually speaking, it means to follow the destiny of one’s soul. This inanimate and living life-force is the power that makes things happen. The prayers and greetings follow this affirmation. Orisha followers focus on obtaining Ashe (divine energy from Olodumare, the creator deity, that comes to fruition through Olorun, ruler of the heavens and the sun - more details in the video above) through iwa-pele (gentle and good character). If they adhere to this, they will experience inner peace and satisfaction with life.

Ashe is sometimes associated with Eshu, the messenger Orisha. Ashe represents the link between the Orishas, the ancestors, and the supreme deity. Brazilian capoeira call it "Axé" and it is used frequently in greetings and as a form of praise in various songs. To say that one has axé is a compliment, meaning that they have a fighting spirit as well as a good energy and attitude.

Pantheon

The orisha are grouped by temperaments and colors. Those who are represented by red or black are considered quick tempered, demanding, and aggressive. Those who are represented by white are considered temperate, calm, and gentle. Oral tradition passes on the knowledge of their temperaments and traits. Each orisha is a ruler over the forces of nature and human endeavors and is recognized through numbers, colors, and foods they prefer. Offerings must consider these aspects to ensure that the orisha recognizes their offering and will come to the aid of those who provided the offering. Some people experience meeting the orishas face to face during a wemilere (drumming ceremony). This is done through trance possession via one or more priests.

The world of the Orishas can be seen in the video below. Elegguá is identified as Exu in the collection of Orishas included in the video. Each can be identified at these particular time stamps:
00:00 - Abertura 1:02 - Exu 2:01 - Ogum 2:59 - Oxóssi 3:54 - Omolú 4:52 - Ossain 5:55 - Oxumarê 6:52 - Nanã 8:00 - Oxum 9:24 - Obá 10:54 - Ewá 12:00 - Iansã 13:06 - Logun Edé 14:21 - Iemanjá 15:18 - Xangô 16:21 - Oxoguian 17:20 - Oxalá

Elegguá

Elegguá is the Deity of roads. He is considered one of the most important Orisha in the Yoruban religion and its American diaspora. He is frequently known by many names including Elegguá, Ellegua, Legba, Elegba, Elewa, Exu, or Eshu. He lives behind all doors and everywhere in nature. As the owner of the crossroads, he is the conduit between the physical and spiritual worlds. He is frequently represented in two forms: as a child and as an old man, representing the beginning and ending of life. This symbolizes the opening and closing of various paths in life as well. He originated out of Yorubaland but has given rise to Santería in Cuba and Venezuela. In Brazil and Colombia, he is tied to Candomblé.

Origin Story

Elegguá was a prince, the son of Okuboro, the King of Añagui. One day, as Elegguá was walking among his entourage, his eyes were struck by a bright light. Upon further inspection, he found the fruit of a coconut tree that had three eyes. Then a voice emerged from the coconut saying, “Take care of me and free me from the insects that want to eat me; if you protect me, I will give you health and prosperity.” Pleased, Elegguá took the coconut with him to the palace. When sharing his story with those in the royal court, many people made fun of the boy. Some even went so far as to throw the coconut around the room, taunting him with it. The King’s advisor suggested hiding the coconut from the boy so that he would forget about it. Three days later, the boy fell ill and died.

While mourning the death of the prince, the court and the people suddenly found themselves in a bad situation. They soon realized that the coconut could be the cause. Since it had been abandoned, bugs had consumed the coconut, and its shell was now empty. A fortune teller was called to assist them. The fortune teller told them that they had offended a good genius who had lived in that coconut. Their treatment of the coconut had angered him, and this is why the prince had died.

The king, repentantly venerated the coconut, asking for forgiveness and protection. However, the genius’ eyes were never to shine again. A soothsayer advised them to put eyes, ears, and a mouth on the coconut so that the genius can hear and talk to us. They found snails to embed on the coconut to give the genius eyes. Then they embedded shells for ears so that the genius could hear their prayers. After adding a mouth, the genius spoke once again. Sharing his wisdom to the ignorant people, he then forgave them.

This is why people started to place a saint’s stone behind the door where the coconut was. Elegguá’s origin as an orisha has evolved into this practice of placing a saint’s stone behind the door, so that he can live there and protect the ilé (house). He is the orisha that opens and closes the astral plane allowing happiness or unhappiness of human beings. He is also the doorkeeper of the savannah and the mountain.

Receiving Elegguá

Elegguá is a child, and as such he likes things associated with the play of children. He is a trickster and likes to play jokes on people. He also enjoys kites, balls, and other toys. He has straw hats and a shepherd’s staff, and likes silver coins, whistles, and keys. His colors are red and black, so he dresses in these colors, often in Spanish colonial-style knee-length pants. Although other traditions have him in white and black, which also demonstrates his contradictory nature. He wears a red hat or kerchief, or a straw hat. He dances playfully and wants attention from onlookers. His food preferences include candy, toasted corn, coconuts, smoked hutia meat, smoked fish, and red palm oil. The elder version prefers cigars and aguardiente (strong alcohol) or vino seco (white wine). His offering day is Monday and the third day of the month. His numbers are 3 and 21 (or any multiple of 3). January 6th and June 13th are recognized as Elegguá “saint’s day” in Cuba. A feast is given in his honor. The Catholic religion has syncretized him with the Child Jesus of Atocha, Saint Anthony of Padua, and the Anima Sola (soul in Purgatory).

His role is to stand at the crossroads between the human and the divine. As a child-like messenger between worlds, he has a close relationship with Orunmila, the orisha of divination. Elegguá is the orisha that must be called upon before any other orisha as he is the one who opens the door between worlds and the different roads in our lives. As a powerful orisha, he is one of the Warriors (along with Ogún, Ochosi and Osun). He is mentioned first in any ceremony as his permission is required for any doors to communicate with other Orisha remain closed without it.

Prayer for Eleggua: Echu obá loná tosí gbogbo ona iré o aché

Through a special ceremony, Elegguá is received alone or with other warriors. In the ceremony, a stone is used to represent Elegguá. The stone is prepared (covered with cement) and charged with the orisha’s aché. The stone is shaped into a head and cowrie shells are used for the eyes and mouth. He is then placed into a clay dish behind a door. Elegguá's eleke (beaded necklace) is an alternating pattern of red and black beads. The colors and design represent life and death, war and peace, and the beginning and ending of all things.

Elegguá plays a central role in every decision made in life. He can make things go smoothly or put obstacles in our paths. It is important to maintain a good relationship with him because without him, nothing is possible.

Eshu

Eshu is like Elegguá's shadow or his reflection in the mirror. They are two sides of the same coin, but with separate identities. Eshu is more unpredictable and is not kept in the house. He lives outside of the house, usually in a garden or in a small space near the side of the front door. Eshu’s tricks can be unpleasant or harmful and some non-practitioners have referred to him as the devil, which he is not. He is very powerful and should not be stirred up. He can however, be calmed by food, so people do place a wooden bowl of food scraps outside of the house for him. He works in tandem with Elegguá to keep balance in life. He is not an independent orisha, but rather a part of Elegguá. He is important because without understanding the dark, we can never appreciate the light.

Elegguá’s Roads

Elegguá has 101 roads at his disposal. Each road signifies a different personality of his. Each of these roads are found in different places in nature. He allows roads and doors to open, facilitating destinies and providing fate to change at will. He can also test one’s integrity to find out if they are honest before granting their desires.

One such road is Laroyé Eleguá, a dancer and lover of money. This childlike path is famous for gluttony, maliciousness, and spoiled behavior. He likes sweets as equally as toys, cigars, rum, and brandy. A popular offering is corn balls with honey and guava.

The opposite, Eshu Laroyé is wise and warns of any dangers that come to the house. He is a protector of the house and a wise business advisor. His natural road is found in rivers. He is the guardian of children (especially orphans), beggars, and the homeless.

Below is a video showing a dance for Elegguá.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the Yoruba culture, the orishas, and more specifically about Elegguá. There are many more stories relating to this orisha and his relationship with the other orishas, which can be found at the website links below.

References

Meet Eleguá: characteristics, rites, prayers, qualities and more

Elegua: Who it is, Characteristics, History and More - Oshaeifa.com

Conoce la Historia: Historia de Eleguá

25 Fascinating Facts About the Yoruba Tribe You Didn’t Know - Cultures of West Africa

Yoruba Culture | Origin, History, Beliefs, Religion & More » PIECE — WITHIN NIGERIA

The Orishas
Elegua: Orisha of the Crossroads

Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. “New Research Reveals the Brain Learns Differently Than We Thought.” SciTech Daily. Jun 1, 2025. https://scitechdaily.com/new-research-reveals-the-brain-learns-differently-than-we-thought/

“Dopaminergic action prediction errors serve as a value-free teaching signal” by Francesca Greenstreet, Hernando Martinez Vergara, Yvonne Johansson, Sthitapranjya Pati, Laura Schwarz, Stephen C. Lenzi, Jesse P. Geerts, Matthew Wisdom, Alina Gubanova, Lars B. Rollik, Jasvin Kaur, Theodore Moskovitz, Joseph Cohen, Emmett Thompson, Troy W. Margrie, Claudia Clopath and Marcus Stephenson-Jones, 14 May 2025, Nature. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09008-9

Shared Genetic Signatures Found Across Psychiatric Disorders - Neuroscience News

Exon-variant interplay and multi-modal evidence identify endocrine dysregulation in severe psychiatric disorders impacting excitatory neurons | Translational Psychiatry

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The Mightiest Heart Project

Project Author: Shella R. Zelenz

Storyteller: Kristine Waters

Author of the book: Lynn Cullen

Recommended for Grades 4 - 8

Suggested duration: 1 week or 3-7 hours total (can be more elaborate and longer as desired)

Table of Contents:

Day 1: Introduction of the story. Sketching scenes.

Day 2: Review of the history (at the end of the story). Research clothing and music of the 13th century Welsh peoples.

Day 3: Start writing the script, plan the music, costumes, props and staging

Day 4: Begin practicing re-enactment

Day 5: Presentation

Day 1

Introduction and Scene Sketching

First have the students close their eyes. Turn off the classroom lights and make the room as dark as possible. If it is an option, have them either lay on the floor or place their heads down on their desks so that nothing distracts them from hearing the wonderful reading of this story by Kristine Waters. The story is 10 minutes long, which includes historical details at the end of the story. You can opt to save the historical details for another class period if you choose. Today's primary focus is to hear the story and to have their minds visualize what the story looked like to them when they were listening to it.

After completing the story, turn the lights back on. Have the students take out sketch paper and whatever art materials are available to do drawings (colored pencils, markers, etc.). Then ask the students to draw what they hear in the story. Draw one picture or draw many. Have them re-listen to the story as many times as you like so that they really get a good feel of the characters, the scenery, and the period the story takes place. Have them share their drawings and explain to the class what it is that they envisioned and why. This should take up an entire class period.

Day 2

History Review and Research

Have them bring their drawings from the previous class. Then have them spend the class period either online or in the library researching the type of clothing, architecture and music that was prominent during this time period. Remind them this is the Medieval Period and that they are looking for Welsh specific information during this period as there are quite a variety of influences during this time period in different locations of the world.

You could ask them the following questions:

Where are the Welsh?

What type of music did they listen to?

What type of clothing did they wear?

What did Llewellyn's castle look like (he is a real figure in history)?

What did his dog look like?

What type of art was common in this period?

How did they spend their days?

Were the people poor or rich during this King's time period?

You could have the students then review their drawings from the previous day and determine if their own interpretation was reflective of the historical versions. This is not to necessarily correct them. This is a great way for them to see the historical realities of the time, and yet simultaneously look at how creative their own imaginations were. The re-enactment that they create can be true to history, or it can be made into a variation or pop-culture format, as they see fit. Let them be the ones to determined how they want to replicate this story in their own words and artistic expression. Let them know that stories throughout history are re-told numerous times and in different forms (Romeo and Juliet is a prime example).

Day 3

Planning

Have the class determine who will be writing the script, who will be creating the staging and planning the music. It is best to allow them to elect people for each role so that they can vote and accept or deny their nomination. This allows them full ownership over the creative process and brings out their leadership skills. Additionally, have them vote for the characters in the play/re-enactment of the story.

Each group will break off and discuss their strategies, visions and planning.

Those writing the script will definitely need one person to write it down while they all contribute ideas to the script. Have a copy of the story available for them to listen to or read to refer to. The visual learners will prefer the original story in hand, but it is helpful for the auditory learners to hear it read to them in conjunction with holding the book in hand. Have them create a script from the story. They can vary the vocabulary as they see fit. The primary goal is that they understand the entire purpose of the story, the characters involved, and how to ensure that the script they write conveys the plot and the moral of the story. This helps them to ensure full understanding of the lesson taught and the value of teaching this value in story form.

Those who are researching music, may want to collaborate with the script writers to know when music will be needed and from there, they can select music that they have researched which fits the scene best. Ensure they have the equipment they need in order to play the music at the time of the performance. They can use Spotify to research 13th century Welsh or Medieval music. Other options include YouTube and library searches if your school includes a music library.

Those who are planning costumes and stage design/props will want to spend time drawing/creating the scenery they wish to include in the story. It would be helpful for them to discuss their ideas with the script writers to ensure that their props align with the manner in which the story is being told and that the props are relevant and not a distraction from the plot. All props and music should enhance the story, not detract from it.

Assist the students as questions occur and help them to be self-sufficient in the creation of their great masterpiece!

Day 4

Rehearsal

This entire class period will be for their use to apply all of their previous day's work. Allow them to nominate a director, the actors, and stage managers. From there, stand back and assist them as requested. It is of primary importance that you do not interfere any more than absolutely necessary so that their creative juices and leadership skills blossom. There will be difficulties. This is normal in any theatrical production rehearsal. They will learn more by being given the space to solve these skills than if everything is micromanaged for them. They may need more than one day to rehearse. Give them as much time as you can to truly create their production. Some deadline pressure may help, but absolutely respect their efforts and just remind them of the time constraints. This too is something that is faced in the real world of theater (and any other business). Remind them not to sacrifice quality. If they must take their work home to perfect it, encourage this.

Day 5

Performance

This is the day they have all prepared for. Allow them to set up their stage, prepare their props and costumes, set up their music so that it is prepped for use during the performance. Set up any recording equipment desired and assign a camera person to record the performance. This recording will help them to review their own product and help them to learn from their mistakes and accomplishments! You could even opt to invite another class to watch the performance, perform in front of the school or a parent's night event. You could offer them a dress rehearsal run through prior to recording or inviting the audience in if time permits. This will help them to ensure that everything will run as smoothly as possible for the actual performance. Wish them the best of luck and smile. It will be a great accomplishment for them and great learning will have occurred, including the following key areas:

13th Century/Medieval literature history (Welsh)

13th Century/Medieval Music history

13th Century/Medieval architecture and textiles

Writing

Planning skills

Organizing skills

Strategizing skills

Leadership skills

Management skills

Taking orders/following orders

Teamwork

Video recording

Internet research

Library research

Reading comprehension

Teaching through storytelling

Since my first experience with Eurovision, I have been enraptured with the music that comes out of Ukraine. Such unique music, topics, and instrumentation that is frequently merging folk traditions and modern popular musical styles. The Ukranian music is extraordinary in so many ways. I love the way that they merge modern and old, respecting their roots and simultaneously paying attention to the world around them. They speak very openly about things they disagree with, while honoring their ancestors and the land they inhabit. This is a culture that has endured many tragedies and yet remains culturally intact. I think that is something to respect and admire. The spirit of the people never dies.

I was quite devastated that they have had to endure an unwelcome war that they never…

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All Chapters

Introduction: Dangerous Society

Chapter 1: The Problem

Chapter 2: Narcissism

Chapter 3: The Results of Programmed Narcissism

Chapter 4: Trauma and Brain Development

Chapter 5: Normalized Trauma

Chapter 6: Epigenetic Trauma Inheritance

Chapter 7: The Purpose Behind Education

Chapter 8: The Purpose Behind Behavioral Conditioning

Chapter 9: Behavioral Conditioning for Schools and Capitalism

Chapter 10: Modern Schooling

Chapter 11: Common Parenting Practices

Chapter 12: The Alternatives

Chapter 13: Communication Skills

Chapter 14: Practical Application

References

ACLU (n.d.). The school to prison pipeline. https://www.aclu/org/issues/juvenile-justice/school-prison-pipeline.

Adams, D.W. (1995). Education for extinction: American Indians and the boarding school experience 1875-1928. University of Kansas Press.

Adams, P. (2009, June 25) Keynote speech given at the Al…

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Bal Musette History

The French attended a bal musette as a form of social entertainment, much the way that the Argentines attend a milonga today. This entertainment was popular among the artistic and literary avant-garde socia…

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During the late 18th century, Mahsuri Binti Pandak Mayah, a beautiful young woman, soon found herself the target of scandal and false accusations. Similar to many tales around the world, jealousy was at the heart of it all.

The second child of Phuket Malay Pandak Mayah, and Cik Alang who married around 1798, and born in 1810, Mahsuri was known as one of the most beautiful women on the island. She was also well-known for her kind heart.

During an annual festival, she caught the attention of the village chief, Datuk Seri Perkerma Jaya. Based on information he received about her, he mar…

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History of Bosnia

The South Slavic peoples have lived in the Balkan region since the 6th Century. Many of them lived in the region currently called Bosnia and Herzegovina. This territory was often caught in battles over territory with the Kingdom of Hungary and the Byzantine Empire, only for the Kingdom of Bosnia to later fall into the hands of the Ottoman Empire.

Significant changes to the population occurred during this occupation, including the conversion of the people to Islam. Two-thirds of the population identified as Muslim by the early 1600s. The Ottoman rule e…

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Georgia

You can’t talk about Georgian music without discussing the various historical influences. This territory is directly under modern day Russia, just north of Türkiye, and has had influence from Persian, Mongol, and the Byzantine Empires. It was also consumed by the Soviet Republic until the Soviet Union was dissolved. They initially had their own kingdom in the early 11th century. Today, they are a democratic republic th…

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Origins of the Name

Not exclusive to Ukraine, the name derives from all of the various Slavic languages an…

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“You girl, tell your father to marry me, and I’ll soak you in milk and butter.”

Cerceruska giggled and decided to tell her father what the widow had told her.

“That would be wonderful!” he said. So, he decided to marry the widow after the many years of constant cajoling she had done to him. They were wed with haste.

The girls were happily doing their chores at the request of their stepmother, but no matter what they did, she scolded them. Her temper was no longer friendly and she beat them more than s…

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Introduction

There are two distinct ages when the brain is vulnerable to trauma due to high neurological development. Researcher, Jay Geidd, M.d., has found that up until the age of 5 to 6 years old, children develop 95% of the structure of their brain (2014). A secondary phase of development occurs in the prefrontal cortex around 11 to 12 years, just before puberty (Geid, 2014). These are the two phases when children find themselves facing the reactions adults have to their newly inspired independence. 

Toddlers suddenly want to explore independently of …

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