No Day But Today

Sometimes you get news that shakes you.
I mean, really shakes you, and from that moment on...things are different.

I received this kind of news today.

Our beloved choir director, George Shangrow, passed away this weekend. A car crash. Rainy night. Accident. No one's fault. A tragedy.

As I read the email from our choir manager in bed this morning from my phone, holding our sweet little girl, I couldn't stop the tears from coming. I couldn't believe what I was reading. My heart was hurting not only for our choir, and not only for the entire Seattle music community that he was so hugely a part of...but mostly for his family. His young daughter who was so very much like him. I know too well the hurt she must be going through right now...

George was a visionary. He had a gift. He was the most talented musician I have ever had the honor of working with and his passion for the music and sharing it with others was infectious. I will forever remember the different facial expressions he shared with us while conducting that could, at times, bring you to tears just by looking at him. The music shined through him and twinkled in his eyes.

The news this morning was a shock. Like life slapping you across the face reminding you that it's short...it's precious...and it's not to be taken for granted. It can change, all too quickly.

And so today I will hug our Charlotte a little more. I will tell those I love that I do. And I will listen to some beautiful music and think of you George. You are the epitomy of living the life you were born to do, and you will be forever missed.