Yesterday my church’s children’s ministry put on its annual Christmas program, and I decided to crawl out from under my rock for once this holiday season to attend.
Children from the age of 2 to the big teens (some of them bigger than me, which does not help me to overcome my fear of teenagers) showcased their talents, including singing, dancing, acting, and standup comedy. They recited from memory Bible verses about the birth of Christ (because Jesus is the reason for the season). Two even played classic Christmas carols on their trumpets.
But there was one performance that stole the show for me, and that was a little girl singing “My Favorite Things.”
I don’t know when “My Favorite Things” became synonymous with Christmas carols. It was originally written for the Broadway musical The Sound of Music and was later performed by the great Julie Andrews in the film version.
So, yeah, technically it’s secular music, and some conservative Christians would probably turn their noses up at it being sung in church. Even I was surprised to see it in the program, but let me tell you how this sweet, angelic child moved me to tears.
She had props onstage with her, and during the instrumental portion at the song’s climax, she skipped around a large paper bag tied up with strings and then proceeded to retrieve a few of her favorite things from it, one of them being a cream-colored stuffed pony. She carried the toy with her back to the microphone and sang…
When the dog bites When the bee stings When I'm feeling sad
The pony dropped to the floor, and her whole demeanor became sullen. But then, as she slowly came to the realization, she continued to sing…
I simply remember my favorite things...
She scooped up the pony, hugged it tightly to her chest, and with a big smile and a big voice, joyfully proclaimed…
And then I don't feel so bad!
I was in that audience wiping my eyes like a proud mama! You get everything you want for Christmas, baby! I don’t care how much it costs!
At this time of year, when so many people deal with seasonal depression, whether you identify as Christian or not, a performance like this can only make you smile.
So whenever you’re feeling sad or depressed this holiday season, simply remember those little things that bring you joy, as I will remember this sweet little girl’s performance!
Merry Christmas!
—Nortina
Written for Music Monday, hosted by A.C. Melody.
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