Photo by pseudoflake

Yesterday, I was given the opportunity to see the South Carolina United Methodist Conference Youth Choir, known to friends as the "Spirit Singers," known to better friends as "CYC," and known to best friends as, well, they haven't told me. This talented group of young people is composed of auditioned youth from across our state. As usual, they sounded great, especially considering they've seen the music for a total of 5 days now.

Two years ago was my first contact with the group, when I inexplicably passed the audition and joined the group at Spartanburg Methodist College for a grueling week of rehearsals. Honestly, I'm still amazed I was given such an opportunity. I had never considered myself to be the "choir type." The extent of my singing had been in the youth's praise band at church. My voice was quiet, hoarse, and flat. Even today, I still found myself in awe of the people singing on stage, despite the fact that I sang with that same group.

For that year-long period when I was in the Spirit Singers, traveling around the state and around the world, I was transformed into the "choir type" of person. I was granted abilities I never knew I had, courage I had only dreamed of, and a life-long group of memories and friends. The year was quite life-changing for me, as I was truly part of a group (a rare feat, as I tend to work best alone). I am so grateful for the opportunities I was given.

Mostly, I just want to thank Kathy-Jo for helping me to achieve things I had never considered for my life. Good luck to the whole choir on your 22nd year of touring.