I’m astonished. It was a difficult read… but you’ve made it all the way to the back page of this epic novel of a Playbill for this Off-Broadway benefit production of The Gospel According to Josh.
Thank you for choosing to spend your time at the theatre. You could be at home watching a House of Cards marathon on Netflix or at Home Depot picking out geraniums for your summer garden. But instead you’ve chosen to hang out with me and listen to me tell you a story. Though technically it’s “my” story, it’s a story that belongs to everyone and a story about all of us. Truly, a person’s story, mine and yours, is the hem that holds together the fragile lining of our civilization. Truthful and artful storytelling will put an end to war, ensure each and every one of us a seat at the table of our civil rights, and is the foundation of our personal and collective journeys toward enlightenment.
Now that I’ve gotten that out of my system, I have a few more quick things to say.
There are several additions or ads I’ve put inside this Playbill, and because of these I have got some ‘splaining to do.
Why the Veteran Coalition of the Arts: Recently I saw these artists and was moved by the power behind their work. Art (in the general sense of the word) was one of several components that saved me during a period in my life where I suffered from clinical depression. My grandfather was a veteran of World War II. He suicided in 1966 and as far as I know did not have a creative outlet in his life. I’m grateful for the quality of the art of VCA’s members and the community they create.
Why Elijah’s Journey: They are the Jewish Response to suicide prevention. I serve on their advisory board. My father was a man of religion and faith (a Christian). He suicided in 2009 and his religious advisors made him believe his depression and suicidal thoughts were a sin. I believe in a holistic approach to suicide prevention. Some people have religious faith (some don’t) and their faith should be one of many tools—and not a Swiss Army Knife—to contribute to a person’s mental well being and ensure they not take their life.
Why “The Good News Project” : This is a new compilation book series I’m curating and publishing. You’ve read my spiel on storytelling. This series is comparable to an “unprocessed” Chicken Soup for the Soul. Since 2011, I’ve told my story to thousands of people. Often audience members will approach me after the show and tell me their own inspirational story, which they’ve never told anyone before. The world needs to hear these gritty, compelling, and powerful true stories of transformation and overcoming tremendous odds. The world needs “The Good News Project.”
Thank you, once again.
Love,
Josh
