September 12–15, 2019

A theatrical presentation of alternative-rock songs written by singer-songwriter Jesus G. Inspired by the juxtaposition of his Catholic upbringing, Native-American ancestry, and sexuality, this work seeks to challenge the abuse of power and honor the soul’s journey, from its trials to its triumphs.

$15 / 55 minutes

The term manifest destiny was originally used in reference to the European settlers who invaded North America with the proclamation that their God had promised this land to his followers. Of course, the Native Americans asked, who is this God of yours who would set man against man in conquest of a land that cannot be bought nor sold? Surely, this cannot be the great man, Jesus, whom we have heard of.

In titling this evening “Manifest Destiny,” I seek to explore the idea that we are all in charge of manifesting the life that we desire. My Manifest Destiny seeks to challenge the bigoted views of the separatist, religious person who believes that he will show up at the gates of heaven and be rewarded with a place in the eternal pantheon. In my opinion, any idea of inequality in the name of God is erroneous and is the root of all war. For truly, in the end, if one’s truth has led to the oppression and death of others, then who is this God who has influenced these actions? Was it God at all? Or was it a man-made creation posing as God?

Salvation lies within our ability to manifest moral obligation and wisdom, regardless of threats or promises of the hereafter. If one needs rules, promises, or threats in order to be a good person, were they ever a good person to begin with? We are bigger than the rules that seek to bind us. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.

– Jesus G

“It is time to speak your truth.
Create your community,
Be good to each other.
Do not look outside yourself for a leader.
There is a river flowing now very fast,
It is so great and swift.
That there are those who will be afraid,
They will try to hold onto the shore.
They will feel they are being pulled apart,
And will suffer greatly.
Understand that the river knows its destination,
The elders say we must let go of the shore.
Push off into the middle of the river,
Keep our eyes open and our heads above water.
And I say; see who is in there with you,
Hold fast to them and celebrate!
At this time in history,
We are to take nothing personally.
Least of all, ourselves!
For the moment we do,
Our spiritual growth and journey comes to an end.
The time of the Lone Wolf is over!
Gather yourselves!
Banish the word struggle from your attitude and vocabulary.
All that we do now must be done,
In a sacred manner and in celebration.
We are all about to go on a journey,
We are the ones we have been waiting for!”

– Excerpt from a prophecy of the Hopi Nation, American Southwest

Learn More:
JesusG.com
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