The Gibson Area Music Foundation presented its annual concert of “Festival of Lessons and Carols” this afternoon. Many selections from Handel’s Messiah are part of the program. The Foundation funds many music camp scholarships each year for students in our community. I was truly blessed to be part of this biennial production. I have participated in this off and on over the years since I was in high school. I was even crazy enough to be a soloist way back when.
Today was the second time since my cancer diagnosis. I recall wondering in December 2021 if I would have the opportunity to sing with this group again. Here I am again, in 2023, wishing like crazy that I’m around to sing with these people in 2 years. This feeling, the wishing and fear, is prevalent for people with Metastatic Breast Cancer during the holiday season.
2023 has not been kind to the people I love most. This morning was no exception. But this afternoon I was able to do something I love so much with my 88 year-old mom in the audience. I loved being able to catch her eyes and see her smile. This is the day the Lord had made – this day with all its ups and downs, sickness and pain, anger and chaos. So no matter what each day brings, I will rejoice and find moments of joy.
I am not in control. 