This past weekend was our island’s annual holiday parade, which included a float with nearly every child from the elementary school. They were dressed with theme elements fitting their float, tossing candy to folks waiting along the parade route, and winning the hearts of the crowd. Then, at the end of the parade down at the County landing, they gathered near Santa’s chair as a group and sang several holiday-themed songs, for the purpose of spreading joy and also giving us a sneak-peak at their annual holiday show given for the community this evening (Thursday). With the exception of the great Covid disruption, this has been an annual event on Daufuskie for decades.
All who are familiar with “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” know of the turning point when the tiny cold heart of the Grinch grows and grows upon hearing the singing of the people of Whoville. Well, this is something similar, as those kids cannot help but put a smile on your face, a chuckle in your belly, and warmth in your heart. The youngest of the kids still haven’t mastered the skill of following directions, so they enthusiastically do their best – often to the beat of their own drum. Most of the kids are earnestly trying to hit the right notes and get their dance steps to coordinate with the others. Then there are the inevitable few who simply check out for a bit as their minds take them to anyplace other than singing and dancing in front of a crowd of folks.
In some ways, this must be what God sees as He looks down at us (although we aren’t nearly as cute as these kids). We’ve got people who are still trying to figure things out, seemingly going in all directions. There are some who know the program, have practiced their steps, and are doing their best to live according to their understanding of the program. Then, of course, there’s a group (seemingly growing larger every day) that would really prefer to be doing something else. So long as this last group remains a small portion of the crew, it is an element of the overall fun of the show. However, if that last group grows too large and becomes the major focus, then the show won’t be much fun to watch. A show like that definitely wouldn’t change the Grinch’s heart.
Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about that with these children. This evening at 6:00 pm at the Fire Station, the kids will gather on stage and perform again, with a few more days of practice under their belts and a renewed dose of enthusiasm. If you are already in the holiday spirit, come and help to spread it around. If you are feeling a little down, then come and have your heart warmed as you laugh and sing and cheer these kids. This is another of our community highlights, the results of a group of people working really hard to give something to our island, and it should not be missed.
Peace and blessings – Pastor Aaron