Gatherings was inspired by the various gatherings taking place during the visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Vancouver. Through dialogues about community cultural gatherings - be they social or ceremonial - common elements emerged: A call to gathering, invocation, feasting/ceremony, thanks giving and reflection. The recognition of this shared experience between cultures grounded the composition. The process of collaboration and resulting comopsition reminded us of how difference enriches each other rather than pose a  threat. With an open heart and generous spirit rooted in recognition of our shared humanity, we can share our gifts through enlightend encounter with one another, and together enrich the fabric the societies in which we live..