It began on Friday evening at my former church, St John's, which I often referred to as my second home. I was delayed in traffic getting there but felt quite calm about it. I knew that I was prepared and that all would be well. I had also used my Grounding Essential Oil which has Vetiver, a potent relaxing oil along with Lavender and other wonderful oils.
A little aside - this oil was supposed to arrive for Lindsay and Scott's wedding back in August but was on back order. It was fine because I was so over the top with joy that nerves just didn't enter the equation.
We all arrived, set up stands and amps and prepared for this joyous occasion, my close friends' daughter's wedding. Now this is one talented family and along with the church organist, the bride's brothers and cousin on guitars, played the processional accompanied by a violinist. And now the magic began.
While I've cantored in church for years, I love "out of the ordinary" ways to connect with others in a musical sense. I was brought down memory lane, recalling how my best friend and I started the folk mass in our church back in 70's. Our Monsignor was not a fan and thus we played in the basement of the church. Within a few years, we were upstairs at a regular mass time and became popular wedding singers.
Moving forward to the 90's at St John's - it was here where I met this family and we instantly became long-term friends. I was so honored to be asked to cantor the wedding and to help in the choice of music. Words and melodies are one of my expressions of love and connection to God and others.
The mass was beautiful, the priest so full of passion and the couple, well, extraordinary! Following mass was a beautiful reception. I met nice people, chatted with friends and even met someone from "Medfa" (Medford) where I grew up. Her folks new my best friends's parents. It truly is a small world.
Onto more music. Not only did the Dad's band play but all the kids, including the bride, joined in with singing, guitar playing and original songs written. People were joyous. It was a festive event.
Now for the magic - my friends have been divorced for a few years and while divorce brings pain, it is also an opportunity for growth. What I witnessed was magical. This family came together as a family, sharing in the beauty of what was and what is today.
I have chosen to keep names anonymous but my message to all is to look beneath the surface and see the beauty and gift in each unfolding event.
With love and gratitude
Julie
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