Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit Haynesville Correctional Center in Virginia—a stop on my journey to bring music, stories, and a little light to places that need it most. The weather was beautiful, which always feels like a small blessing when you’re on the road. Sometimes, it’s the little things—like good weather—that set the tone for an experience, and I try to remember to be grateful for them.
Getting into the prison was its own adventure. Who knew that a single Ricola throat lozenge could cause such a holdup at security? (Note to self: next time, empty all pockets!) After the search, setting up my equipment was actually pretty relaxing. There’s something satisfying about getting the sound just right, especially when you know you’ll be sharing music that matters to you.
The room was filled with a group of guys ready to listen. I started with “A Song Is Born,” then played some new material—including “The World Is Still the Same.” We talked about how the world is changing, how people are searching for meaning, and my new project: taking the spiritual pulse of America. It was interesting to hear that, even inside, folks agreed—people everywhere seem to be getting more spiritual these days.
One thing that stood out from our conversation was the focus on kindness. I asked what spiritual acts people try to do, and many spoke about simple acts of kindness. One man talked about greeting everyone warmly in his store, another emphasized being patient (which, as we agreed, is its own act of giving), and another made us laugh by saying his act of kindness is smiling and waving at drivers—even the ones who cut him off and give him the finger.
After two hours of music, questions, and sharing, I walked away with a sense of blessing—and a reminder that the smallest acts of kindness can ripple far beyond where we stand. At the end of the show, the guys wished me a safe trip and encouraged me to keep spreading good vibes. If you’re reading this and you’ve listened to my music, I hope you’ll share it with someone who needs a lift. And if I’m ever in your city, let’s connect for a home concert and some honest stories about this journey.
Music, kindness, and a little patience—sometimes that’s all it takes to make the world a bit brighter.
This is Gedalya, the Folk Rock Rabbi, with A New Song USA, signing off from Virginia. Next stop: State Farm Correctional. Wishing you all only good things.