I had the distinct pleasure of attending my grandsons’ holiday concert last week. What a joy to watch children from junior kindergarten to grade five perform. There were so many sweet faces, and their eagerness to sing was heartwarming.
We might all learn a thing of two from the songs they shared. The healing words and inclusive manner of the program reminds us all of what life is about and what it means to be good to one another.
We listened to Dale, Dale, Dale – a song that celebrates the tradition of Piñata breaking during Las Posadas – and Tue Tue which is a traditional song from Ghana. In addition to Tue Tue, Grade 3 students including my older grandson, gave an enthusiastic rendition of Here We Come A-Wassailing to wish everyone blessings for the New Year. Grade 2 sang Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah to reflect on Jewish traditions as several students danced the hora. With O, Christmas Tree, students in grade 1 reminded us of the tradition of decorating a tree for Christmas.
Grade 5 students performed People Got to be Free by the Rascals, with lyrics about equality and freedom.
All the world over, so easy to see
People everywhere just wanna be free
Listen, please listen, that’s the way it should be
There’s peace in the valley, people got to be free
Those in grade 4 sang Crowded Table by The Highwomen with a chorus that suggests hope for the future – a future where a new generation makes the changes that are necessary to heal our world.
I want a house with a crowded table
And a place by the fire for everyone
Let’s take on the world while we’re young and able
And bring us back together when the day is done
The senior kindergarten students – my younger grandson is in SK – sang Ode to Joy using simplified words to share the message of joy that comes with this time of year.
Come and sing our joyful chorus
Lift your voices to the sky
Helping hands now join in friendship
Keeping hearts and spirits high
Sister brother care for each other
Care for the world and keep it free
All together sing together
As a peaceful family.
Joy – Peace – Freedom – Friendship – Tradition – Tolerance – Blessings – Family – Caring
These beautiful children reminded me that this season should be one of inclusion and celebration as well as one of respecting the traditions of your family along with those of others.
May you experience the joy and comfort of family and friends … wishing you all the best for 2023.
~~~ Mary
10 Responses
Thank you, Mary, for sharing such hopeful words!
Many thanks, Jill. Wishing you and Steve a Merry Christmas.
I love your newsletter. I had the joy of listening to students at my school’s holiday assembly sing another Hanukah song. So enriching. I love celebrating Hanukah and hope your Christmas is bright.
Many thanks, Joan. Wishing you all the love and joy of the season.
Wonderful to hear, Mary. Likewise, wishing you a peaceful and inspired New Year!
Thanks so much, Therese.
Thank you Mary ……. grandchildren are wonderful, aren’t they? I wish you & your family a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2023
beautiful and thoughtful gleaning from the lives of children. Thank you
What a thoughtful post and wonderful reminder of the need for peace and joy. Another gift from being a grandparent. Thank you
Surely, children are more loved by grandparents…