My Mother loved music. She grew up taking piano lessons and singing at different functions with her twin sister. As a child I remember her listening to Anne Murray, The Oak Ridge Boys, blaring on the record player while cleaning, and singing along. I know she instilled in us kids the love for music. My Dad told us, that one year my Mom wanted a baby grand piano, so she worked very hard until she saved enough money to buy one....it was beautiful, a treasure. We all got to practice playing on it...I miss those days.
After our Mom died, my Dad set up a music scholarship in her name and memory at Payson High School. My siblings and I are blessed to present it to a recipient each year. Last year my brother Matt gave it out. He said some profound things which touched my heart. I was so proud of him, I'd like to share some of his thoughts with you...they made a huge impact on me.
"As you sit there I ask a question, how many times have you heard a song and were taken to a distant memory? Yanni, the self taught pianist, keyboardist, and composer stated: "Whether a person is spiritual or not, we all seek to get away from the stress, anger, and anxiety of everyday life. Some people drink, do drugs, or do worse to escape, and they hurt themselves in the process. Some people listen to music and feel better."
Our mother loved music. There are times in my life where I can close my eyes and remember her singing a particular song sharing her talents with those around her. This scholarship is one way that we try to help that song carry forward. We have been giving this award for over 25 years...As you listen to music may you ponder these words from the French poet Victor Hugo. "Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent." We ask you to express your song as out mother expressed hers."
Of course, I cried. I still do. Thank you Mom for bringing music into our lives. Thank you Matt for helping us not forget. I love you brother.
4 comments:
I remember hearing stories from my mom about how much your mom loved music. It emanated from her. I also remember seeing her scholarship being presented to worthy students when I was at PHS. What a great tribute to her memory and legacy.
My husband also constantly has music playing at our house it is amazing to see how quickly the kids pick it up.
Oh Sarah, you got me crying. I love music too, I hope that my children will be touched by music in their lives as well. God bless you and your family!
You must have a wonderful mother! My mom taught us a love for music too.
My mother also loved music, and instilled in all 6 of her children a deep love for music. Before she was married, she was a soloist in the BYU A Capella Choir, and then later was a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. She blessed countless lives with her talents, both in Illinois, and in Utah. She started a Children's Chorus in Naperville, Illinois that is still honoring her memory today. She died as a result of reoccurring breast cancer 18 yrs ago. There are still songs that are too hard to hear. They make me miss her so much.
I don't know you personally Sarah, but I met your brother Matt when our boys were both in Boy Scout Troop 999. I will pray for a miracle in your life. It sounds like you've had many miracles, but I pray the Lord will let you stay here and raise your children! Keep fighting Sarah! I wish we were still living in Utah because we would come run for you!
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