Bring us the Flame

A Tribute to The Báb
In honour of the Bicentenary of His Birth

Poem by Paul Toloui-Wallace
Music arranged by Shadi Toloui-Wallace & Jason Bienia

Click here to download the song for free.

Bring us the Flame – Background story

In its 2018 correspondence to Baha’i’s around the world, the Universal House of Justice reminded Baha'is to think of ways to honour the Báb on the Bicentenary of His birth. One of those ways suggested was to use the arts. My father, Paul is a poet and this is the story of how he was inspired to write this tribute to the Báb, which we have titled Bring us the Flame.

When The House of Justice’s message was released, Paul was tutoring Ruhi Book 9 where participants were asked to consider the intangible, abstract virtues of God as a way of appreciating the unknowable essence we call God, our Creator. There is a paradox in the Baha'i Faith where Bahá'u'lláh asks us to strive to know God, but then tells us God is Unknowable. In Ruhi Book 9, we discover that its the importance of journey to know God, not the destination.  

In late 2017, Paul attended Baha’i pilgrimage just after the Bicentenary of Bahá'u'lláh. An important component of all Baha’i pilgrimages is to meet The Universal House of Justice, where individual members of the House of Justice share their personal thoughts with the pilgrims. In one of their talks, the Pilgrims were reminded that part of the duties of a Pilgrim is to return home with news from the Baha’i World Centre and share their photos, memories and experiences of the Holy Places. 

During his pilgrimage, Paul reflected on the many Baha’i’s who will never be in a position to attend Pilgrimage. Among his fellow pilgrims were Baha’i’s from countries like Azerbaijan and Myanmar. They had saved for years for their Pilgrimage, a trip of a lifetime. This was Paul’s fourth pilgrimage, and after meeting his fellow Pilgrims he felt humbled and privileged and motivated to share his experiences. 

Today we have the technology available to learn, explore and discover Bahá'u'lláh. Paul has thought deeply about the Bábi’s during the 1840’s and how thousands of The Báb’s followers discovered and imagined Him. The absence of the today's technology and resources compounds the mystery about the early Bábi’s journeys of spiritual discovery to become His ardent followers. The spiritual forces released by the Báb’s declaration enlivened the fertile spirits who were expecting The Promised One. The only possible way for those devout souls awaiting to discover The Báb was by word of mouth, from Bábi pilgrim’s stories and letters, and also mystical visions and dreams. 

After wrestling with how to merge these thoughts into a meaningful poem, the idea evolved in Paul’s mind of the story of humble villagers who are devoted Bábi’s, who possess spiritual insight, and are too poor to travel. These devoted souls yearn for guidance and spiritual sustenance from The Báb. By chance, they discover a Bábi who is a pilgrim traveling to visit The Báb while He is banished in the fortress of Máh-Kú. Not wishing to burden the pilgrim they request these intangible items to be brought to them, that they feel will guide their ways and sustain them spiritually. 

Paul says the poem reflects his and other Baha'is feelings today, as we progress on our own personal spiritual journeys to deepen our relationships with The Báb, Bahá'u'lláh and `Abdu'l-Bahá

Bring us the Flame Lyrics & Chords

V: Em G Am C             Ft 2

C: D C      | B: D F C Em

if you are a pilgrim
to the Báb in Máh-Kú?
we’ve got a request
we must ask of you

we need precious things
you can’t see or touch
they’re easy to gather
and will move hearts so much

bring us the flame in His eyes
from the fire in His heart. 

bring us the imprint
of His feet in the sand
so everyone knows just
how we should stand

bring us the mirror
that reveals his gaze
we want His reflection
to guide our ways

we need the flame in His eyes
from the fire in His heart.

bring us the holes
from His threadbare clothes
to clothe our own souls
from our head to our toes

bring us the sound
of His melodious voice
that endless echo,
our devoted choice

Oooooo 

there’s just one thing
that we ask of you now
please wipe and keep
the sweat from His brow.

give us the flame x 6

give us the flame in His eyes
from the fire in His heart.

if you are a pilgrim
to the Báb in Máh-Kú
we’ve got a request
we ask you to do

To learn more about the Báb visit : https://bicentenary.bahai.org/the-bab/

Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference, Arizona

My family and I were lucky enough to be invited as performers to the Annual Phoenix, Arizona Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference for our fourth year. Around 3000 registered participants gathered to learn, deepen and be inspired. I was fortunate to be surrounded by so many loved ones and mentors. It was such an honour to share our music as part of the program, and to meet many friends who'd been impacted by our devotional songs. Lots of love and encouragement was felt in the many interactions that took place over the weekend. 

Highlights were obviously sharing the stage with my mother and sister, but also with my music mentors and close friends, Jamie Heath and the group Smith & Dragoman, who were also performers at the conference. Jamie, Hoda and Myself got to join Smith & Dragoman for a suprise collab on the outro chorus to Divine Tapestry, a song that my family used to listen to daily on our way to school. It only took us about 4 minutes to drive to school every day, but because the song was around 6 minutes, I remember sitting in silence with my family waiting for the song to end and fill our blood streams before leaving the car and going about our day. Friends would often walk by the car and see us all sitting in silence, pointing to the direction of the school and we would just wave them by as we didn't want to leave until the African Choir joins in on the closing chorus until the song had ended. And here we were, over 10 years later, singing that exact chorus, with the very band that created it, on the other side of the world <3

Here are a few photos from the weekend: 

Bicentenary Celebrations in East Vancouver

On October 22nd, the world celebrated the 200th Anniversary of the Birth of Baha'u'llah, Founder of the Baha'i Faith. Thousands of events, commemorations and celebrations took place around the world, many of which can be seen here. It was so unique to see how each town, city and region across the world applied their culture and traditions to this universal celebration and how they included all walks of life. 

In East Vancouver where I live, I took part in 4 unique celebrations in my neighbourhood 'Commercial Drive', each taking on their own identity which widely depend on who was organizing and attending the celebration. My most memorable experience was organising a Unity Feast at the Aboriginal Friendship Centre, which focused primarily on indigenous friends and connections in the area. In their large gymnasium we hosted over 250 Elders, Chiefs, Families, Youth and Children. The program honoured the Coast Salish nations on whose land our celebration took place: Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Musqueam. The program included singing, dancing and drumming from various nations, youth, and junior youth sharing the impact of Bahá’u’lláh's revelation on their communities. Elders and chiefs shared how they learnt about Bahá’u’lláh, how they were inspired by His teachings, and the influence of the Faith on the lives of their people. A dignitary from the Musqueam Nation welcomed everyone with a prayer in his native language and followed by saying “I prayed that you would all recognize the truth in Baha’u’llah’s words,” he told the audience afterwards.

Here are some photos from the Celebration at the Aboriginal Centre of which I was a part of:

Photos taken by Galen Hamber

Geenlake Baha'i School

Once again, I enjoyed a magical weekend in Wisconsin, at the annual Greenlake Baha'i Conference, amongst 600 or so others. It was such a treat to be present to reflect on concepts such as Hope & the Family, to enjoy in the arts and music, and reconnect with old and new friends. I also gave a workshop on Songwriting and putting the Sacred Baha'i Writings to music, which provided participants an opportunity to collaborate and develop some stunning tunes. 

Here are a couple pictures from my weekend at Greenlake and also from my trip to the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmet where I performed a devotional the night after the conference. Always a pleasure and an honour. Thanks to everyone who came out! I hope to return again some day soon <3 

Winnipeg Baha'i Summer School

Was a wonderful weekend reflecting on the 'Joy of Teaching' and taking part in the planning of advancing many community development projects currently underway in Winnipeg and around the region. I had the opportunity to share my music and a very special hands on workshop that focuses on the importance of putting the Sacred Baha'i Writings to music and also ways to do it ourselves. 

Altadena, California

Such a memorable night playing in my friends backyard on a warm Friday night, sharing my music with old and new friends. Many thanks to my dear friend, Nura, Pardis and Khalil for hosting the night and making it such a beautiful and memorable event <3

Tahirih Justice Centre Fundraiser, California

The Tahirih Justice Center is a US based non-profit organization that has served over 22,000 courageous individuals fleeing violence since 1997. Their efficient, effective, and innovative model of service range from direct legal services, policy advocacy and training and education to protect immigrant women and girls fleeing violence. 

I was privileged enough to be given the opportunity to share some music from my album Daughters of the Kingdom, at a private fundraiser in support of the TJC mission, and to help raise funds to expand and service more women and girls. I was inspired by strong women when writing Daughters of the Kingdom, so it was lovely to be able to make this connection with the Tahirih Justice Centre, to promote justice and equality for strong women who have the courage to stand up to injustice. 

With the host Sussie &amp; some friends.&nbsp;

With the host Sussie & some friends. 

San Clemente, California

My dear dear friend Poupak hosted a beautiful house concert on her back patio as the California sun set. It was so lovely to see so many new and familiar faces. It was a chilly night, but our hearts were cozy and warm. Poupak is a constant source of support and such a perfect example of advocacy for arts in the Baha'i Faith. I always feel at home here and am so grateful for all the love and hospitality I'm showered with every time I return.

Laguna Beach, California

I had the special opportunity to share my music at a monthly gathering called Divine Melodies on Friday, June 9th, at Ataii/Ebrahimi home. There happened to be a concert flautist in the audience who offered to improvise on a couple of the songs, and it brought me so much joy to hear these songs with such beautiful new harmonies. 

 

Myself and my new friend, Farshin Doust. Me, overjoyed as you can tell :)&nbsp;

Myself and my new friend, Farshin Doust. Me, overjoyed as you can tell :) 

Calgary, Alberta

I was able to sneak in a visit to Calgary to visit some dear friends, visit the youth of Morley reserve and perform a small house concert at the Mottahedeh Residence.

These ladies are part of a Junior Youth Group in Calgary, who's animator was generous enough to support my album Daughters of the Kingdom and to return the favour I made a musical visit to meet and sing with these talented, beautiful and joyful soul…

These ladies are part of a Junior Youth Group in Calgary, who's animator was generous enough to support my album Daughters of the Kingdom and to return the favour I made a musical visit to meet and sing with these talented, beautiful and joyful souls. 

Met with the Youth of Morley Reserve who were studying to become Children's Class Teachers for their community. We talked about the importance of music in spiritual education, and ways to integrate it into their learning and their classes. Here are …

Met with the Youth of Morley Reserve who were studying to become Children's Class Teachers for their community. We talked about the importance of music in spiritual education, and ways to integrate it into their learning and their classes. Here are some youth pictured with a prayer they chose and wanted to put to music, to help them with their memorization. 

Post workshop photo. LOVE THESE GUYS!!! They were such a joy to work with and learn from.&nbsp;Thank you for opening my own house concert with your beautiful original sacred melodies &lt;3 made my LIFE!&nbsp;

Post workshop photo. LOVE THESE GUYS!!! They were such a joy to work with and learn from. Thank you for opening my own house concert with your beautiful original sacred melodies <3 made my LIFE! 

MUCH LOVE AND THANKS to Neeka, Stephan, Rocky, & Martha for arranging and hosting this beautiful intimate house concert in Calgary. Almost 70 friends came together including the youth of Morley Reserve who opened the night with a prayer they had composed to their original melody. Was such a special and memorable night, thanks to all who came out, it was so lovely to meet you all <3 Click on the images below to see an album of the night. 

Edmonton, Alberta

I had the privilege of performing a number of small private house concerts/devotionals and one larger show at the Baha'i Centre of Edmonton over the weekend of May 12th to 15th. I was fortunate enough to have a number of backers support Daughters of the Kingdom from Edmonton so much of the trip included fulfilling these rewards and meeting the friends. A highlight was certainly spending time with my old friend and fellow Baha'i Musician, Katie Mustafayeva. She has one of the most powerful voices that when paired with the sacred writings shakes you to the core and connects you to a spirit that is so divine, raw and pure!

Was so blessed that she agreed to open the night <3 

Carlsbad, California

I ended my San Diego Tour in Carlsbad at a stunning club house. My tour would not have been possible if it wasn't for my dear friend Sam Delchad, who on his own volition, saw the power of music and was determined to bring it to his community. If it wasn't for individuals such as Sam, I wouldn't be able to do what I do, so I am eternally grateful to him. We met briefly in passing at the conference in Santiago, Chile, and he promised that he would bring me to San Diego, and he did. What a memorable trip it was. Here are some photos from the concert in Carlsbad. 

Vista, California

This was a very special night. My parents and I had the bounty of visiting a neighbourhood in Vista, San Diego, a predominantly hispanic speaking population with the most vibrant atmosphere. There was so much life in the room filled with children, junior youth and their families, all engaged in building better communities. I really grew to admire the friends serving in this community for the love, dedication and enthusiasm they have for the friends they are serving along side. This community hosts 2 Childrens Classes, 4 Junior Youth Groups, Sewing classes, English Classes and even a Soccer team! This event was hosted by two Junior Youth groups, and their families, who put on a delicious Mexican Feast followed by music and conversation. Thank you to all who contributed to what was truly a memorable night! 

I was so busy I only got a couple photos, so here they are! 

Mira Mesa, California

I met with some youth serving in the neighbourhood of Mira Mesa and near by surrounds, to share some of my music and my experiences as a Baha'i inspired musician. It was a wonderful night filled with music and discussion. We talked about the role of music in community building, and the ways in which our communities can directly support artists, so that there can be more of them using their unique abilities to further serve the community. It was insightful to learn of some of their experiences with arts based initiatives, and I was excited to share stories and reflections of my own experiences through South America and how I witnessed the friends use the arts to influence positive change in rural and urban communities. Was just really great to open up a space to have an elevated discussion surrounding the arts and I'm so grateful to the youth for opening their home and hearts, and for sharing some of their beautiful melodic anthems with me <3