MTC #233 - To the West Coast They Go!

NUTS AND BOLTS: The choir met this past Tuesday evening to rehearse one last time the concert that they'll take to the various cities along the West Coast. Those of us who were not going on tour, filled in the last two rows of seats and rehearsed the songs as well, sitting most of the time, and on a few of the songs, simply observing those in front of us. Then, on Thursday, the Choir held a pre-tour concert, open to the public, in which they went through the concert from beginning to end. Again, those who weren't going sat on the balcony seats, nearest the singers, and observed. Though it became really hot since the Tabernacle was filled to capacity on a warm summer day, the concert went very well and Mack and Ryan commented later that they were pleased. With Willy to my right and Jeremy to my left (and my Aunt Winnie in the audience), we enjoyed the opportunity to listen to all the music and support our fellow choir brothers and sisters. Then, today, of course, was the broadcast, and we sang some great songs--some of which indirectly had a message about fathers, given that's it's Fathers Day. 

HOW I FELT: As I've mentioned in prior posts, it's been hard to continually watch the choir make tour preparations knowing that I wouldn't be able to go with them this time. However, I've finally reached a "grateful, happy place" where I can, instead of feeling selfishly sad, wholeheartedly wish them good luck and pray for their success in fulfilling their callings as musical missionaries. With all the sights they'll see, the new and deepened friendships they'll make, and audience members they'll impact, I hope they give their best efforts to singing with the Spirit and projecting a feeling of love that comes from Jesus Christ. People desperately need to feel that, and the choir is in a unique and wonderful position to provide that, through song.

As for the broadcast today, the one song that touched me the most was Pilgrim's Song, which, actually, reminds me of my sister who passed away recently. While I'm always grateful for the time I had with her, I was happy when "the messenger [said to my sister] come quit this house of clay, and with bright angels tower."  I really miss her though.

Speaking of missing people, I realized, a few days ago, that today would start a choir break that would span almost a month because of tour and because of personal family vacations. So, I was a bit sad to say goodbye to my carpool group and other choir friends knowing how long it would be before I could say hello again. I'll miss them, and miss singing next to them. 

COMING UP: Normal choir happenings will resume on July 5th with rehearsal that night, followed by Music and the Spoken Word on the 8th. Then the choir will start rehearsing for the Pioneer Day concert which will be held the third weekend in July. More details HERE.

Happy Father's Day to all those fathers out there, and particularly to those who wish they could be fathers but have never, as of yet, had the opportunity. My hope is that they get that opportunity, either later in this life, or certainly in the next.

Until next time (July 15th!!), God be with you.