Well, here we are in 2022. And we are STILL in the midst of the Covid pandemic. As a matter of fact, so many of the "normal" things that had finally come back in late 2021, are now on pause, once again. Lia and Ellie have been practicing for months with their Dance Connection special performing group, Spotlight. These girls (and boys) work long hours, doing extra classes and learn extra dances, just to perform. The purpose of this group is USUALLY to entertain at nursing homes and care facilities for the surrounding communities. Then Covid, again. So the very creative and wonderful owner and teachers of this studio, decided to do a series of shows for the community - aimed at children under 10. The dancers whirled and twirled to the familiar music of Frozen. There was limited attendance, social distanced and everyone wore masks. The air purifiers were humming and the windows were cracked to help keep everyone safe. The dancers wore 2 masks! The studio even zoomed for anyone who was unable to attend. Was it worth the effort? You bet!
During the last two years, so many of us have become depressed and lost hope. It has felt like we would never again be truly happy and at ease. Even going to the grocery store causes anxiety, and it's not just the prices that make us feel queasy. We have become fearful and nervous around others - even sometimes our families. Not only do we not want to get sick ourselves, but we certainly don't want to get others sick. So many have "taken sides" against each other. Logic and common sense seem to have fallen by the wayside. Yes, these are tough times. But just take a look at those sweet, young faces. They probably have many of the same feelings that you and I do. In fact, I think it is much harder for the children and youth to process growing up in a world wide pandemic. But I see HOPE and JOY and LIFE when I look at these photos. There is determination and perseverance and hours of hard work. And behind every one of these dancers are their families. The moms and dads (and sometimes grandmas) that drive them to and from dance classes, over and over. Who most likely make monetary sacrifices to pay for these classes. Is it worth it? You bet. I don't think these dancers were giving Covid a second thought as they performed the day I watched the production. They were listening to the giggles and claps of the children in attendance. They were feeling the joy of the accomplishment of a job well done. They were part of something bigger than themselves. A common goal.
I wish that all of you could watch this performance. More than that, I hope that all of you take away a bit of the lesson I learned that day. We can not stop living. We have to find a goal to shoot for. Make plans for the months ahead. We need to figure out how we might bring a spot of joy and hope and life to those around us. Even knowing that it takes hard work and perseverance. A life lived for Jesus is a life that walks confidently - no matter what is happening around us. We need to begin each day, covered in the armor of God so that the fear and isolation and anger about the pandemic don't overwhelm our hearts. Over the past week since this dance show, I have had more than one aggravation pop into my life. It certainly helped to close my eyes and remember the freedom and joy I saw on the faces of the dancers that day. And then I began to sing... "Let it go!"
Jesus, thank you for using ordinary things in my life to remind me of your plans and purposes that don't stop for Covid. Holy Spirit, keep this message fresh and close in my mind and heart as I walk through the next days. Jesus, keep us mindful of your presence as we face conflicts and disagreements, no matter what the topic. Guide us to the people and places that you have purposed for us. Thank you for loving us all. Amen
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