Astonishing

Singing for funerals is part of my music ministry.

It may sound morbid, but it comforts the bereaved.

As long as I focus on the music and avoid

eye contact, I am fine.  This music ministry began

when I was a teen organist and choir member.

While teaching, I was unable to continue

this ministry since funeral times conflicted with

my work schedule.  As a retiree, I volunteered.

It was seldom that I encountered anyone from

my “other life” as a teacher.  It did occur at

odd times though.  Choir members gather

one half hour prior to warm up and get

last minute instructions.  Drink some water.

Remain quiet in our places as the music

Director played background organ pieces.

So, there I sat, front and center, awaiting

the processional music when I was startled

by a female voice who declared: “You teach

German, don’t you?”  I felt several sets of eyes

from choir members wander  my way.

Someone related to the deceased happened

to be from Germany and wanted to meet me

afterwards. It is astonishing when lives converge!

Who knew?  What a small world indeed!