Donna Dearborn

‘We’re here’

The full church pulsated with energy and joy, filled with the notes of Handel’s powerful music. And despite his stroke, Dad sang with confidence, as beautiful as ever.

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, sang the tall, bearded tenor soloist to begin the annual Community Messiah Sing at Centre Congregational Church in Brattleboro.

“Is it really you?” I asked. I squeezed Dad's arm, to confirm that he was actually there and to acknowledge the miracle that he was sitting beside me at the Messiah.

I could see the emotion in his eyes, his furrowed brow, and lips that were pursed tightly in a way that says you're filled with joy, but at the same time you could almost cry and you're desperately trying not to.

Luckily, the first piece was sung by a soloist. Not ready to sing just yet, we contently sat there, surrounded by familiar notes from the massive pipe organ.

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