And if you can't afford anything...

God I love buskers! Their spirit, their talent and their commitment to bringing joy and humor into the world - without always looking at the bottom line - is refreshing. In fact, time after time at BuskerFest 2010, the various performers end their pitch something like: "... and if you can't afford anything to share for this performance, please come up and say 'thank you' because that will mean the world to me. I want to know you enjoyed the show."

And it isn't bullshit - sure it is good public relations in these tough economic times - but it is also part of the way these performers operate: they love to bring beauty and fun into the world.

The waterfront of Halifax is filled with performers and people of every shape, size, race and nationality. And there are the necessary craft people, too, hawking various bracelets, rings and caps. A very family friendly environment that touches my heart.

Yesterday we saw two totally knock-out street performers: Wally and Flame Oz. Wally is a cocky Aussie juggler with a wicked tongue, sassy street banter and impeccable sense of timing. He worked the crowd like a master for 45 minutes. He was just on the safe side of risque with his gender-bending quips and gay jokes, but like he said, "Don't worry, mom and dad, the kids don't get it... and if they DO it is not MY fault!" I hope to go back to see him again later today.

And an act we watched twice - once in the afternoon and later in the evening - was Flame Oz from the UK. This tumbling, fire-eating ensemble of 5 babes and buff dudes also worked the crowd to a fever pitch with their routines. And at night, when everything involves their precise fire-throwing/twirling act, it was stunning to watch.

We also came upon St. Matthew's United Church of Canada - the oldest 'non-conformist, dissenting Protestant church' in Halifax - who is hosting "Busker Sunday" tomorrow so guess where we'll be going to worship? As always happens, we find new ideas and inspirations from the various churches we happen upon and St. Matthew's was no exception. I can't wait... and now back to the streets!