Advent In An Hour: Dec 17

Since I was busy all weekend singing with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington I am posting those days retroactively… and basing the Advent doodles on some of the songs we performed…

In memory of Peter Fox, who passed away on January 2, 2012, 16 days after this post was written…

Recently a member of our chorus fell gravely ill. As part of our efforts to wish him well, we sent a video of ourselves singing “Merry Christmas, Darling.”

Merry Christmas darling
We’re apart that’s true
But I can dream and in my dreams
I’m Christmas-ing with you

One of the many comments made about this person over the weekend struck me in particular: “No matter who else was around, whenever you were speaking with him, you felt as if you were the only person in the room.”

I don’t know him well, but from the few conversations I’ve had with him, I can echo the sentiment wholeheartedly. The comment has added impact because this man seemingly has it all: great talent, good looks, a Donny Osmond smile, etc. Someone with the potential to be quite intimidating if he wanted to be, yet he chooses to wield his charm for good purposes.

So over the course of this very tiring weekend of rehearsals, concerts, celebrating, and holding out hope for our chorus brother, I was reminded of two things:

1. What a great community of friends and family I have in GMCW

2. When you take the time to talk to someone — no matter how intimidating or good-looking or popular or grumpy or aloof they may seem on the surface — people are generally pretty decent. I know I can’t be best friends with all 250+ members of my chorus, but every time I’ve made the effort to say hello or get to know one of them on even the most basic of levels, I’ve left pleasantly surprised and feeling a little more connected.

So whether you’re with family, friends or going it alone for Christmas, find a way to stay connected. If not in person, then over the phone, through email, Skype, Facebook, Twitter, or even by commenting on a blog. 🙂

Logs on the fire
Fill me with desire
To see you and to say
That I wish you Merry Christmas
Happy New Year, too
I’ve just one wish
On this Christmas Eve
I wish I were with you