Dear Editor:

The Troup High School chorus, under the direction of Jamie Gibson, and the Long Cane Middle School eighth grade advanced chorus with Elizabeth Biggs, joined for their fall concert Nov. 15. The Troup High School fine arts auditorium was filled with anxious and proud parents, grandparents and friends.

As we waited, watching the intent business of preparation to sing, I was reminded of a quote: “When I am about to sing a song, it exists only in anticipation. As I begin to sing, the notes are plucked off and committed to the past, and now the song is finished and no longer sounds. It is only remembered.”

More than 100 young people took part – girls in long, black dresses accented only with pearls and young men in dark suits, white dress shirts and ties. I could only think how they had left the torn blue jeans, the T-shirts and sneakers behind and now stood as disciplined as any adult would be. There was no shoving, giggles or whispers, They listened with love and respect to people who had made a change in their lives.

Music is a life song, and the program progressed from an old hymn, “We Gather Together,” to songs from years ago and the beautiful harmony of a traditional spiritual, “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me,” with soloist Mya Brooks and descant by Jasmine Pattillo.

The chorus was accompanied by Zack Wright and Jamie Gibson. As the progress progressed, their voices were joined by Heidi Baldwin McKee on cello and when the combined choirs came together in an awe-inspiring “Look at the World.”

Hundreds of people stood up as one and gave this dedicated, hard-working, disciplined group standing applause.

When we worry about our young people, attend a program and you will know there is still good in this world and our future lies within these young people. “The songs are now finished and no longer sound. It is only remembered.”

Dorothy Smith

South Thompson Road, Pine Mountain