The Messiah 2011

The Christmas season doesn't really feel "official" until I get to sing a little Handel!  Perhaps, that's because I've been doing it every December for as long as I can remember.  Yes, last night I watched my Dad direct Pocatello's annual Messiah Sing-in for the 27th time!  My Dad's involvement started long ago when the Messiah was just a Highland Stake fireside where Dad played the viola in the small orchestra.  He then participated as a frequent soloist and eventually became co-director.  Each year this little event grew bigger and bigger--bringing in people of all faiths--until it couldn't be considered a Mormon/Stake event any longer.  Pocatello's Messiah is now held in The Stephen's Art Center, accompanied by a full orchestra, and features over 10 (pretty professional) soloists.  However, regardless of the level of ability, one thing remains the same... this oratorio, which was written in 24 days, is divine.  It's a miracle.  That's all there is to it.  Every time I sing the words--"Wonderful!  Counselor!  The Mighty God!  The Everlasting Father!  The Prince of Peace!"--the Spirit testifies to me that this is true.  It's been a thrill for me as a parent to have my children attend these last few years, watch their grandfather's legacy of service, and be a part of this glorious music!

Justin, Carson, and Ashton were sick last night and stayed home... so that left me sitting between McKenna and Kyler working a little frantically to keep them both on the right page and measure.  But boy, they were troopers.  They both sang the entire thing!  Even Kyler was reaching for the high A's with me!  And the most wonderful part... watching tears stream down McKenna's face during the "Hallelujah Chorus."  At that moment, everything was right in the world.

Also worthy of mention...it was a unique experience to sit in front of my brother-in-law, Mike, last night.  He proceeded to "BAAAAA" in my ear throughout the entire rendition of "All We Like Sheep."  Or how about when my mother proceeded to politely tell that usher that, "No, she would not un-save her seats" because her husband was the head-hauncho after all!  Ah... family.  It's the best!

How do you know that you truly have the greatest Grandfather in the world?... When he fulfills his grandson's wish of climbing to the highest seat in the auditorium even though he's in charge of a million other things! Look close... Grandpa Luke, McKenna, and Kyler are waving from the very top!

Personal note to one of my favorite blog readers:  Thank you, Dad, for your showing us the importance of community, service, sharing our talents... and taking time for what matters most.  Love you more than you'll ever know!--Jodi