Estelle, who may be younger than I, always sits in the back and plays dominoes with the men. Everyone at the table greets us cordially when we arrive, but they do not look up from their game for long. She struggles with speaking so I am grateful she has this way of engaging with others. Her eyes are a lovely brown, and while they reveal much love and recognition, they also reveal much sorrow. I think her life has been difficult, and I have gleaned that she has an adult daughter whose lifestyle is of some concern. Sometimes, she weeps.
Last week, the pianist had a doctor's appointment and could not join us. However, another volunteer also comes to this community. She does not play piano, but she does have a nice alto voice. I found a song sheet with some familiar hymns, and we boldly carried on, finishing with "Amazing Grace." I am grateful that this hymn was written. We sing it often, especially when one of our volunteer pianists cannot come to a service. Almost everyone can sing at least a portion of it, and it holds meaning for many.
As I listened, I heard one elder singing the melody using no words. Her voice added a surprising lightness as other voices joined in with varying pitches. I was surprised to also hear some sort of drumming. I looked around and saw Estelle smiling as she filled in some really nice rhythm by tapping on the table. This activity room has a lot of windows, and sounds reverberate, highlighting distractions and conversations. That day, however, for just a few moments, we became one voice. We were truly making music with what we had, which was pretty much just ourselves with a lot of of Christ joining in and holding us - a sweet sound indeed.
If you will teach us, we will seek to walk by what we learn,
your truth, our path,
your name, our heart's desire alone.
Bind our hearts together,
both yours and mine and make them one,
that there may be one praise alone, one song.
So give us strength when weak,
and fill our want with mercy's greatest gifts.
These signatures of grace you write across our lives.
Psalm 86:11-12,16-17
Ancient Songs Sung Anew
Lynn C. Bauman
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