Warping walls of sorrow Deforming memories of Ancient Cities That golden past - undefeated through faith Spit upon by fate’s random drawing masquerade
We sing of hope and endless summer blossoms Hear our village songs embrace us for the winter Of dissolution, assimilation, deprivation
Yet out children dance to Sayat Nova, sing of Gomidas And celebrate a hundred years past Khatchadourian With pride, reverence and Armenian Ararad.
Survive or parish facing hoards of barbarians Unwashable, unabashed Survive or stagnate in a world of wonders And wicked winds of tempting scripted denials.
WE SHALL NOT!
Steadfast we laugh, remark Remake and remain resolved On this side of a mystical paradise.
Bedros Afeyan 11-15-03 St. John Armenian Church, SF, CA A Centennial Celebration Concert of Aram Khatchadourian’s birth