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Connections


© All rights reserved. Dee Muzzi. Jan 08.


Connections was a ten-episode documentary television series created and narrated by science historian James Burke. My husband and I used to watch reruns of the show when our kids were little and really enjoyed the varied and unique way the show went about teaching the audience about science.

I've always had this love for connections. Things that bring people and ideas together really have a way of making my day. Even in writing for this blog, it is an exercise in connections of what is brewing and bubbling in my mind and hopefully connecting with the reader. Connections in writing, science, community and life are life-giving.

Last night, some of my church kids and I went to a retirement home to go caroling. We brought caroling books, a Santa hat for one of us to wear, and some battery powered electric candles we borrowed from a supply closet at church.

We wandered around the floors of the home and sang in hallways, dining areas, and even took requests from residents if they had any. Most people were happy with whatever song we sang. There was one lady who told us no when we asked if we could sing her a song, she said, "I'm to miserable for Christmas carols." That was difficult for the students and myself to hear, but I'm sure she had good reason to feel that way. At least we were there to listen to her express her sadness.

On a warm fuzzy note, the upper floors had a community pet: Dale a calico cat came to greet us and followed along with our group for a while. The people listened, some even came out of their rooms in their pj's to get closer to the music. All in all it was a great opportunity to make connections with people that are sometimes forgotten about.

On a personal level, I'd forgotten how fun visiting a retirement home can be. Doing something so simple as bringing a handful of students to visit, really brightened the residents day. To be honest, the residents brightened mine.

There were two ladies that really made a connection with me. One lady was sitting in the dining hall eating her dinner, and as soon as we started singing she put down her fork and sang along with us. She knew all the words of 'The first noel' by heart! I was looking in my book to remember and she knew all the words. It made me wonder if she was ever the one standing there holding a carol book singing to a roomful of strangers?

One other lady we met in the hallway. She and her friend were cruising around the halls and visiting all their friends while in their wheel chairs. The even greeted us when we arrived on their floor to sing. On their second pass by our group as we were singing by a nurses station, the one lady looked me in the eyes and sang along with me. We held eye contact for the longest time, but it was not awkward or strange. Her eyes locked on mine as we sang the same words. We were connected.

This exchange of eyes helped me better understand the statement, "The eyes are the window to the soul". She looked into my soul and I into hers and we were no longer visitor and resident, we were just two souls singing praise to God together, in fact I sensed Jesus was strongly present with us in that moment. Maybe even what made the connection of our eyes, words and heart so powerful was the Spirit that unites us - if we are willing to be united.

May your Christmas be one of friendships, family, and connections that unite you in mind, heart and spirit.


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