Singing in the choir

Shortly after we started going to St. Mark's I had a chance encounter with Mel, the choir director, at a lunch. After introductions, he asked "Can you sing?" When I hesitantly replied that I could carry a tune, he pressed on- "Can you read music?" Again, my answer was tentative. "I was taught to, but am very rusty." After we had lunch, he informed me that he was going to prepare a music folder with my name on it and expected to see my at practice on Wednesday!

So I obediently showed up that Wednesday, and plunged right in. I sing alto, and some of it was challenging. I have learned alot about "winging it" and so just did the best I could. That first Sunday, when I put on the choir robe and walked down the aisle to the front where the choir sits, I was pretty anxious. But as the service progressed, and I experienced the worship and sang the hymns and the anthem, I really felt happy to be part of something. So I have continued, since February, with a 2 week break during which I really missed it. We haven't joined the church yet, but I want to, and the experience of traditional worship and singing in the choir is a major factor for me.

Tonight I made a new friend at choir practice. I took the initiative, for a change, and after choir Carolyn and I exchanged particulars. I talke to Julie a little, too, and said hi to a couple other people. I have realized this about me-- that I could easily avoid people for a long time. So I put myself into groups where I can feel a belonging, because I need to not isolate myself, and really do believe I have something to offer.