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A new ‘Hallelujah’ for the war in Ukraine

A new ‘Hallelujah’ for the war in Ukraine
Hallelujah - Leonard Cohen's song for Ukraine with new lyrics, 2022
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David L. Nevins
By David L. NevinsMar 10, 2022
David L. Nevins
David L. Nevins serves as co-publisher of The Fulcrum. Additionally, Nevins serves as co-founder and Board Chairman of the Bridge Alliance. Nevins brings business acumen, vision and a tireless this-must-and-can-be-done zeal to the burgeoning movement to bridge divides to transform the political process. As a business leader, Nevins excels at building bridges between people and organizations from the right, left and center for civilized conversation and then action. He co-founded the Bridge Alliance because, as he says, “No matter how well managed and how well funded anyone organization is, significant political reform will not happen without an alliance to further collaborative interactions. Together we can and will raise the collective impact of all.” He is a member of the Aspen Institute Society of Fellows, with a focus on the Aspen Rodel Fellowship in Public Leadership, he established and continues to work with The Nevins Democracy Leaders program at Penn State University. Nevins graduated with honors in economics from Penn State in 1969 and received an M.B.A. in finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1971.
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So often in our history horrific and unforeseen events bring us together as a nation. That is happening today with the united condemnation of Russia’s attack on Ukraine.

As we all search for the answer that might solve this humanitarian crisis, artists are adding their voice. One such artist is Shirely Serban, known best for her humor and satire. She recently said the crisis in Ukraine moved her to rewrite the lyrics of Leonard Cohen’s 1985 song “Hallelujah.”

Serban spoke of her motivation for writing the song:

“I know that I'm more known for funnier songs, but with recent events, it's hard to find humor. I played with the lyrics of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah' yesterday — all about trying to find joy in the midst of all this, then recorded it with my guitar this morning. Ukraine is very much in my heart at this time. This song is for all unwittingly caught in the conflict there. Also remembering the very many in Russia who want nothing to do with this, including those who are putting their own lives in danger through protesting. And not forgetting victims of war and unrest around the world today — you are not forgotten.”

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The word “hallelujah” comes from the word “hallelu” in the Hebrew Bible, where it represents a shortened form of the unspoken name of God. Overtime “hallelujah” has become a refrain in times of celebration, mourning, regret, catharsis and reconciliation.

Today is one of those times.

Serban’s “Hallelujah” helps us all as we all try to find some hope and joy in the midst of this crisis. And perhaps it will inspire people.

“I'm well aware that a song doesn't stop the guns and tanks, but it can help people voice what is hard to do otherwise. And that might lead to action. For those who pray, they may pray more. For those who petition others in power, it might lead to a renewing of that. Or giving to charity, or just being mindful of others around the world. I've had people commenting who are going to Ukraine to help defend it. But really, the song at essence is a statement of shared sorrow,” she said.

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