Singing Testimonies: Ramblings on Lessons Learned

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Ramblings on Lessons Learned

I had another opportunity to step in for a chorister this last Sunday and was reminded, yet again, that there is always more to learn in this calling. I was asked to review the 2nd and 3rd verses of "If I Listen With My Heart" with the children to help solidify the words. (Anybody else noticing how difficult this song can be for some of the kids?) I won't go into exactly what I did. Instead I want to list a few things I thought of as I planned and was reminded of as I taught.

*Sometimes it is best, especially in JP, to only focus on 1 verse of a review song. This helps the kids to really solidify the words and also allows for some additional songs that add the variety those little minds can benefit from.

*KISS: Keep It Simple Silly! I am guilty of planning elaborate singing times only to discover that something much simpler could have accomplished the same goal....and most times would have done so in a better way.

*I need to work harder at giving the kids a specific goal or directive when they repeat a song we are reviewing. Instead of just telling them I couldn't completely understand the words or hear them, I should challenge them to sing one particular work a little louder than the others (ie. "prophet"), or to complete some other task that will keep their focus and limit the chance things are getting monotonous.

*It is always a good idea to invite the teachers to take a break from singing so I can hear how well the children really know the words.

*There should never be a Sunday that is devoted to just singing "fun songs". We should always have a gospel theme associated with our plans. Each and every song in Primary is inspired and can help teach these children gospel truths that will strengthen their testimonies.

*It is always a good idea to get the little bodies in JP moving. This can be as simple as having everyone use their "pointer finger" to help you find a requested picture or object. It is amazing the attention and participation that you can get when you invite all the kids to help from their chairs, instead of just one.

*SP loves to be challenged. These kids are smart and we should not underestimate their musical ability and gospel understanding.

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You are called of God

You are called of God. The Lord knows you. He knows whom He would have serve in every position in His Church. He chose you. He has prepared a way so that He could issue your call.

You are called to represent the Savior. Your voice to testify becomes the same as His voice, your hands to lift the same as His hands. His work is to bless His Father's spirit children with the opportunity to choose eternal life. So, your calling is to bless lives.

There will be times when you will feel overwhelmed. One of the ways you will be attacked is with the feeling that you are inadequate. But you have access to more than your natural capacities, and you do not work alone. The Lord will magnify what you say and what you do in the eyes of the people you serve."

Pres. Eyring