As authentic today as when he first spoke

This figure is one of only a few who have managed to engage my inner being. His courage to differ in a difficult and turbulent environment makes me sure that he has something inside.

His empathy with the masses and his capacity for communication with them on abstract themes in their own language style amazes me, because he is also highly thought of by the elite. Cak Nun’s words are as authentic today as they were when he first spoke. This is the important thing to note in a ‘true’ leader. God willing, Cak Nun is included among them.

For me, until this day, Cak Nun is identified with the song "Tombo Ati," which always soothes my heart and brings tears to my eyes.

Tony B. Trihartanto

Head of the Perbanas College for Economics, Jakarta

Notes:

Tony appeared and spoke at a Kenduri Cinta gathering late in 2005 at Taman Ismail Marzuki, Cikini, Jakarta, the night that we were joined by the whirling sufi dancers who, seated at random among the crowd, would rise whirling with the music .

For "Tombo Ati", please see post entitled "Poetry ...Tombo Ati, The Heart's Ease" below.

Translated by Ian L. Betts