Instrument Lamp

Ever since I was 15, I loved venturing to the Jones' house and looking around at all the wonders. Many trinkets, most instrument themed captured my eyes from the start. There was one thing in particular I was quite fond of. A lamp, but not just any lamp. A lamp made out of a flute and a symbol.

For years I told myself that when I stopped playing my flute, I would get Mr. Charlie to make me a lamp, out of my flute that I grew up playing.

Recently, I began playing weekly for my church. (read about that here) Just randomly, after a little over a year of not being able to visit the Jones' the though crossed my mind... Man, I guess I will have to find another flute to make a lamp out of. It was just a faint memory, a distant wish... a thought soon to be forgotten.

Only, Mr. Charlie had not forgotten. About two weeks ago I received an email to meet the Jones' at the usual tailgate spot after the homecoming game. The only stipulation, Donna and I had to come together. I didn't think much of it, but was excited to see old friends once again. Little did I know what was in store.

As we walked up to the tailgate we were greeted by familiar friends and happy smiles. Mr. Charlie was busy talking, and asked us to go ahead and go into the tent. As we visited and chatted, Mrs. Tamara then called Donna and I back to the front of the tent... and there was Mr. Charlie, beaming holding two lamps... one for me, one for Donna! One a clarinet, one a flute. I was, and still am, overwhelmed with joy. A small word, a gesture indicating something I liked was remembered EIGHT years later and graciously carried out. I love this family, and this lamp means the world to me.

Wow, what a gift.I will never be able to explain how grateful I am for the influence of the Jones' family in my life. What a blessing....

Professional

When most students involved in band graduate high school they stop playing. Few of us continue on as collegiate musicians. As a student who majored in a discipline other than music, I thought once I graduated college I would rarely play my instrument again.

Just a few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity of a life time. My heart longs for music. As and SAI, I love music, value and cherish it. And the music minister at my church asked me to play a special for a conference our church was holding. I was so nervous, as I have a HUGE performance anxiety. But I was also excited. I thought it would be just a one time thing, but about a month ago, our music minister asked me to play again! My heart leaped for joy! I thought, 'maybe I did a good job after all'!

And so it began. That night, after church, my music minister asked if I would be willing to play in the praise team, every Sunday. I joyfully agreed, and two weeks ago was my first full time Sunday. Never did I think I would need a flute stand, but last week I bought one.. It makes me feel like a professional. A musician again. It brings unspeakable joy to my soul by playing praises to my God and King.

It was very comical, even my music minister had no idea flutes could have stands, and they were all amazed when I showed up yesterday to church with my newly purchased stand.

Again, it makes me feel professional. And I have a great time playing in the praise band at my church! To God be the glory for his infinite blessings!!