Storytelling changes lives and transforms people. Stories bring to life lived experiences and, most importantly, invite us to be a visitor in someone else's world. They give birth to unity and understanding, building bridges in the abyss of the unknown. We can no longer remain separate from one another when we begin sharing stories. Yet if somehow we remain separate it highlights our own unwillingness to connect and soften our own hearts, so love can enter.
One of my favorite stories is a song, “Me Rehúso,” by Venezuelan music artist Danny Ocean. He shares his story of navigating life between geographical spaces—being physically here, in Miami, while emotionally there, in Venezuela—leaving loved ones behind and immigrating, becoming one of the more than six million forced to leave Venezuela. Despite being upbeat, jovial, and catchy, this song captures the raw reality of having no choice but to leave behind loved ones due to forces outside our control. Not only did this song drastically change his life from one day to the next, but it quickly became an anthem for diaspora communities, refugees, and immigrants worldwide.
When I first heard “Me Rehúso,” I was entirely unfamiliar with the history laced within the lyrics. Nonetheless, it filled me with joy and love, which triggered me to research the artist and song. Upon discovering the story of immigration, love, and longing embedded in the song, it struck an even deeper chord within me. As time passed, Danny released more music, which I began listening to. I was no longer just a “Me Rehúso" fan but a Danny Ocean fan.
Naturally, my next inclination was to see him in concert. Unfortunately, this was delayed due to the pandemic, but in 2022 my dream became a reality in Monterrey, Mexico. About halfway through his performance, Danny began introducing “Mónaco,” the next song he would perform–a collaboration with the music duo, Lagos. For background, the chorus of “Mónaco” translates to:
I know it's too late to go back And our plan was never to stay I don't know if there will be a second part But if something remains with us, it's everything that happened in Mónaco
He began to intimately share the first time Lagos showed him this song. "When I heard this song for the first time, the first thing I thought of wasn't a girl… No… I thought about my country, about Venezuela," his voice wavered as he paused to hold back tears. The atmosphere quickly transformed in light of his raw emotion. We, the crowd, silently and anxiously waited for his next words. He continued, "I hope one day to return. I hope we can all return." His words pierced my heart, triggering tears that blurred my gaze... How can one begin to understand the longing someone feels to return to their country, to return to their home? At that moment, I could feel his longing, steadfast hope, and love… That is the power of storytelling.
While I sang along to “Mónaco,” and later on “Me Rehúso,” I thought about Venezuela, of course, but I also couldn't help but think of Ukrainians, too, in light of the war… And some Russians, who risk their lives in an attempt to publicly protest the war. And other Russians, who are locked into Putin's ideological trance, murdering their neighbors because somehow they believe they are doing the correct thing.
When you believe in something and are willing to kill for it, what could possibly make you stop and question if your beliefs are correct? What could make you stop and recognize the humanity, love, and beauty in the people you are willing to murder? And how do we walk alongside our neighbors, whether from Venezuela, Ukraine, or other countries whose citizens are left with no choice but to flee in hopes of life itself?...
We need stories, and we need storytellers. They bridge the divide, make the unknown known, and create unity. Division cannot stand a chance if we are brave enough to show up and share our stories.
To this day, “Me Rehúso” is still a song that brings me peace, makes me dance like crazy, and dream of love… Not just romantic love or the love I feel for my dogs and friends, but the love that reminds us why we exist... A love that drives us to commit ourselves to each other with respect and creates a more meaningful existence for everyone on earth. A love that reaches each corner of the universe and touches every heart, reminding us we are all one…
And what about you... what stories can you share with the world? How can you create unity though your words?
Sending you love, wherever you may be.
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