Words That Comfort.

I was a little girl of four when I was asked by my mom if I would like to sing at a funeral. I wasn’t sure what a funeral was, but I said, “Yes”. I learned later that Billy, a little boy of four, had fallen out of a tire swing and hit his head on a rusty tomato can and died. I knew Billy a little bit, but his family lived way out in the country so they didn’t get to church very often.

Billy’s family were members of the church where my dad was the pastor so the funeral would be there, and I would sing! Many people were already there when mom and I walked across the lawn and into the church. I was beginning to feel like throwing up. When it was time for me to sing, Mama motioned for me to get up. I was proud to do as my mom said because I was wearing a pretty white dress, stockings, and shoes. All of which I borrowed from Donna my friend. I knew that I looked good!

I started to sing and after I had sung a little, most of the people started to cry! I thought I should quit singing? I must be singing awful.

I inched closer to Mama, who was playing the organ, she smiled, so I kept on singing. When Mama and I were walking back home I asked her why they all cried when I was singing. She said, “Because you were a good girl and they understood the words you were singing. It’s always good to make sure people understand your words. With them, you bring them comfort, hope, and faith.”

I have sung many solos since that time and I always remember Mama’s words and make sure the ones who hear me know what I am singing about. Maybe you don’t sing, but even if your talking, make sure your words are true, and might even bring comfort, hope or faith to those who hear you. We hear so much today that is not true. Let’s try to change all that.