TCATS #252 - Love Rules

Two things I wanted to mention for today's post...

First, most Spoken Word messages, which are a part of Music & the Spoken Word each week, are prepared weeks in advance. Bro. Lloyd Newell usually pre-records them weeks in advance, as well. Music is chosen to help enhance the theme of the spoken word message--though not all of the music selected is for that purpose. Today, however, given the terrible tragedy at the Tree of Life Synagogue this past week, it was decided that the spoken word be partially rewritten just a few days ago, both out of respect and out of love for the families and friends of the victims. Of course, the message is not just for them, but for everyone--a message of working harder to come together as brothers and sisters and of showing more love and respect. 

Hate crimes are terrible, in and of themselves. But the way this country is so bitterly divided, on just about everything, is a tragedy as well. The music and spoken word today was presented in an effort to remind all of us that we're all in this journey of life together and love will always prevail. Here are a few excerpts from today's message:

But there’s something else that happens in the wake of horrible events, something that sparks hope: In the process of mourning with those who mourn, we remember that we share a common humanity, a brotherhood, sisterhood. We realize that although we look, believe, and think differently, we share this small space in the universe, and we need each other. When one group or individual suffers, we all do. So we help one another through difficulties and trials, because that’s the only way we can move forward in the face of suffering.

We’re truly in this together. We need voices of peace. We need hearts of love. We need souls that respect our shared humanity—who generate light instead of heat. In other words, we need each other. In the end, hate will not win; goodness will. Ultimately, evil does not rule the day; love does—and always will. Voices of peace and hearts of love are never alone.  

I certainly have days when I think love won't prevail. But my hope and my faith demand better thinking of me. And when I truly look at the bigger picture, there are so many good people doing so man good things. That reality keeps the other, more dismal reality, at bay.

Second, while I enjoyed singing several songs today, one in particular was The Impossible Dream. Not only are the words inspiring ("...march into hell for a heavenly cause!"), but a good friend of mine who just joined the choir this year has had it on his bucket list to sing this song with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. And today his bucket list was fulfilled! It was fun to feed off of his excitement and to see how happy he was.

That's about it. Until next time, God be with you.