Q: So you were marked absent for Thursday's rehearsal and Sunday's performance. What happened?
A: Well, as what happens to all choir members at one point or another, I was out sick.
Q: Sorry to hear that. Are you feeling better?
A: Thanks for asking! Yes, yes I am...Certainly on the uphill.
Q: Do you plan to get back on schedule this week?
A: Indeed, that is the plan.
Q: I'm sure the choir missed you. What happens when choir members are out sick or otherwise are gone for whatever reason?
A: LOL. I'm not sure the choir missed me per se. There are over 400 of us. And one of the reasons there are that many is so that when people are out, the choir can still function and carry on in its mission. The reality though, is that even though you're not missed from a numbers perspective, you are missed because of the individual contribution you make to the whole. Your talent, your testimony, your preparation, your prayers for other choir members and those who listen each week--all of these things are important for the choir to achieve its mission.
Q: What is your attendance requirement anyway?
A: We're asked to be in attendance for at least 80% of the rehearsals and performances. Each section leader in the choir takes roll at the beginning of rehearsals and the results are handed in each time. Even being late is noted in the roll. Six tardies turn into one absence. That all said, our choir handbook says it best: "Choir leaders have indicated on numerous occasions that 100% attendance is not expected of anyone. There will be times when your family needs you or something else arises. Serve in your Choir calling with commitment, but always put first things first."
Q: If you're just not feeling quite up to par but still feel good enough to go to choir, what are your options?
A: You can go and sit in one of the designated places to observe the choir (and even sing too, if you feel up to it). Taking this option will give you attendance credit.
Q: Having not missed very many rehearsals or performances during the 15 months you've been in the choir, how did you feel this week?
A: Well, I felt a lot of things. Physically of course, I wasn't feeling well. Emotionally though, I was very sad not to be there. Singing with the choir has become an important part of my life and something I look forward to each week. I kept looking at my watch on Thursday night and this morning, thinking about what the choir was doing. In fact this morning, I happened to look at the clock right at 9:30 and I thought "Here they go! They are right in the middle of singing "Gently Raise the Sacred Strain" and will soon be getting into the prepared repertoire (with special guests, the BYU Singers)." So yeah...it was hard. But I did try to take advantage of my time away by getting my health back and helping with the family when I could. AND, as you probably know, you really appreciate something a lot more when you suddenly don't have it.
Q: So DID anyone notice (aside from the roll taker) that you were gone?
A: I'm sure some did. A couple of my fellow bass friends even texted to say they missed me and to give their "Get well soon!" well-wishes. So I really appreciated that. It always feels good to know you're missed!
Q: Thanks for this little interview Bro. Pitt. It's been insightful. Any parting words before we end?
A: Thanks Bro. John Doe. I don't think so, other than God be with you 'till we meet again!
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