TCATS #372 - Thank You Jerold Ottley

As you may have heard, former Tabernacle Choir director Jerold Ottley passed away this past Friday and those within the Choir community took pause to feel grateful for all that Brother Ottley contributed during his time holding the director's baton (which was nearly 25 years!). 

Although I never knew Bro. Ottley personally or had the opportunity to sing under his direction, I did take some time to learn about him and what, exactly, he contributed to the Tabernacle Choir--aside from directing it for so many years. Most of what I mention here can be found in a write-up the Choir organization published Friday, but the things that impressed me the most were these:

 *responsible for 30 official recordings
*went on 20 tours
*directed 1,300 MSW performances
*put in place the retirement policy, the attendance policy, audition procedures, and the formation of the Choir School
*appointed the first female organist
*established the annual Christmas Concert tradition

As I pondered the significance of all of these things (and there are certainly many more wonderful things about Bro. Ottley not even related to the Choir), It got me thinking of what legacy I'll leave when my earthly life ends. What will people say of me? What will they ultimately remember?  These are sobering questions and ones that pop into my head a little more often these days as I approach my 50th year. When it's all said and done, I suppose what I hope for the most is that people remember that I was kind to them and genuinely loved them--that I lived the second great commandment. As I've been extra critical and judgmental of people lately, I need to do better. And perhaps keeping this end-of-life perspective will help me in my efforts to improve. 

Until next time, God be with you.