MTC #139 - Of Jenny Oaks Baker and of Recapturing

The past few weeks, the choir has enjoyed some level of normalcy as we really haven't had anything "extra" to perform or rehearse for. And, far be it from me to speak for the whole choir, but I think we've all enjoyed the mini-break! It's been nice to spend additional time at home and tend to other responsibilities. For the next couple of weeks however, we'll be doing some recording and then it's time, once again, to prepare the music for General Conference in October.

So it goes.

Today we were delighted to have on stage with us Jenny Oaks Baker, who is a Grammy nominated violin artist and who has released an amazing thirteen albums. I confess that I have not listened to any of those albums, but I was very impressed with her performances today. I think the thing that impressed me the most, aside from her obvious violin talent, was the spirit she brought with her. I just felt like it was important to her to connect with the Choir and connect with the audience. And through those connections, she was able to portray her love of inspiring music and her love of Jesus Christ. 

Turning to a different topic, I wanted to end my thoughts by mentioning this idea of "recapturing". I've mentioned before from time to time that it's easy, as a choir member, to sort of get into this habit or rhythm and start taking things for granted. The magic of performing and sharing a talent becomes a little bit ordinary. I realized on Thursday evening at rehearsal that I had descended into this state of being of which I've been describing. After rehearsing, it dawned on me that I hadn't even prayed for our visitors that evening! I always pray for them. I pray that as they listen to the music, their hearts will be lifted and they'll leave feeling happier and inspired. I've always felt a responsibility and an opportunity to pray for them. And then I started thinking of others things that I've let slip. 

Fortunately, today I felt like I had recaptured the magic and ascended back up to where I wanted to be. There was one point in the broadcast I even had this humbling surreal moment when I realized where I was, what I was doing, and that my family was back home watching on TV for me. And as I looked out at the audience, I was so grateful they came. A prayer went out to them and to others who would be listening throughout the world. 

We have the opportunity each day to recapture the magic and wonder of this or that. The magic of being a friend, a parent, a spouse, a coworker, or just one of those nice people you interact with when you're out and about. I hope we can embark on a recapturing mission and experience, again, what we may have temporarily lost or forgotten.

Until next time, God be with you. 

Bass section singing Down to the River