Born In Song?
Before we got married my mum said to Mr Pamsperambulation, “If she’s not singing in a morning within 3 minutes of putting her feet on the floor, you’re in trouble”. Music and particularly singing was an important and enjoyable part of my life, especially in worship, part of helping focus on God.
When you add to that the fact that Methodists are “Born in Song” – singing is what we do, you can see the place I was coming from.
One of the saddest parts of my illness is that I can no longer sing, more than a couple of lines and I’m off coughing and hoarse. Sometimes I can live with this, sometimes, especially in worship, I find it very hard.
I want to make it clear that I am not getting at anyone here, just exploring a way to live with what is, in a community that places a lot of emphasis on singing as a way to meet God – after all it is a way I would have used before I couldn’t. But I don’t want to let something that used to be such a fundamental part of my life and worship to come as a barrier between me and God, or the community that still worships that way. It’s me that’s changed – not the church.
It can’t just be me. What about people who just don’t like singing or music just doesn’t do it for them? Or people who come into our churches and know none of the hymns and songs we sing, finding it a totally alien concept? I suppose they find a service that suits them. But I have lost enough, and don’t want to feel I have to find a different church tradition too.
I had found one way of joining in with the music, by having a percussion instrument. It helped me to still feel a part of the singing instead of just standing like a lemon. But it’s not appropriate for all songs – and certainly not for all situations.
So how can I work this out? I have no answers, but have got to find a way to come to terms with it. Some days it’s ok, others it breaks my heart and makes me feel even more isolated and de-skilled than I already do. Anyone any suggestions?
Pam's Perambulation 
Yes, I know this.
On the positive side, it forces you to consider the words more deeply, as they are slowly sung. But it is a peculiarly isolating feeling – as us being unable to stand when everyone else is. I think that’s part of what makes it hard. (At least, as far as I can remember! Haven’t been able to go to church for over a year)
Yes, there is that. It’s finding creative ways. And coughing so much does make me stand out rather!
Not being able to go to church must be so isolating. I had that at the beginning of my illness, because being the minister and being off sick, to then turn up is difficult.
I hope the church comes to you – and not just your husband!
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