There are moments in our lives, experiences that are etched in our memories where our hearts are touched in ways they are not otherwise touched. I had such an experience this evening as I gathered with members of the Cedar 8th Ward and from the old 7th Ward and we went to the home of Jim and Judy Boyd. Jim came home from the hospital earlier today. Jim has come home to pass on from this life. He has been in a battle with cancer for the last couple of years and though he put up a valiant fight it has ultimately won. I don't know how many of us filled the living room, dining room and kitchen of their home but it was a sizeable group. We sang Christmas carols to this dear man. I was positioned in the kitchen and did not have a view of Jim in his hospital bed but I felt a powerful and spiritual bond with those gathered in this home. I turned at one point and saw Judy crying as we sang. My eyes were also wet and I often found myself unable to sing. As we came to our final song Brother Thorley asked Jim if he would conduct. Jim is the ward choir director and loves music. I don't know how long he was able to lead the song but he was able to start us and we sang Silent Night for Jim for what may be the last time. It was powerful yet somber. Hearts were touched and knit together there tonight in a very different night of caroling. We had opportunity to walk through and shake hands with Jim as we exited the home. I don't know that caroling will ever be the same or that a time will come when I won't think about that moment as I struggle to sing Silent Night. Jack came with me tonight. Glad he did and hope it is something he will remember. Much thanks to Cindy Bagnall for sending me the invite to join in this. Grateful for Jim and Judy and their friendship over the last several years.
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