I received some very sad news this evening... well, I should say sad for those of us still here on earth without my sweet friend. The angels, the Lord, and Ms. Christine are rejoicing, I'm sure, as they're sharing time together even as I sit here. Christine came into my life several months ago when I began volunteering at a local nursing home, directing the small "choir" of voices who'd join me in the activities room on Sunday afternoons and on Monday mornings for Kindermusik story times with community children. Ms. Christine would require my reintroduction every time I visited, as her mind was "just not what it used to be," according to her. She would remind me multiple times in a setting that her dear husband worked for Colonial Bread for years, and that she was proud to be from Franklin. She certainly never failed to mention her long affiliation with Una Church Church of Christ, either. But though little pieces of information would come and go in her mind, once we began to sing, her memory would stand at attention and words, along with a beautiful alto voice, would pour out of her like she'd been doing it all her life... and she had. We sang hymns, folk songs, big band music, and the like, with one of her favorites being, "Down By the Old Millstream." She was moved to another facility a short time ago, following a fall. I visited her there, unknowingly, for the final time. She had a really difficult time recalling much of anything. In a new place, with different people, she really struggled. But, we got out our hymnals and opened up to "Blessed Assurance," for one last praise together. It was priceless. Ms. Christine, thank you for sharing your heart and voice, your spirit and your kinds words. I can't wait to see you again someday!
"This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long."
Making music matter,
Jen
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2 comments:
Very powerfull.
Jen,
This is very sweet and meaningful to me. Thank you writing about Gran-Gran in your blog. You captured her completely. When the nurse called and told us she had passed away we knew that Pop had come and told her it was time to go and The Lord was ready for her. We know that she is in Heaven singing with Pop and if there is a need for bread, Colonial will be handed out by them both. I am so glad that you and John chose to make Una your home.
Love,
Sara :)
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