THE CHRISTMAS CAROLING INCIDENT
Repost from December 11, 2011
image courtesy of photobucket.com
I think about her sometimes… more often around this time of year. A Christmas hasn’t passed, nor I guess ever will, that her memory doesn’t return like clock work. A few nights ago, right on cue, my family talked about Danielle and the Christmas caroling incident.
While I love music and enjoy singing, I don’t do it too much in public. When I sing at church it’s not very loud. So I’m not sure what came over me… Well I guess I do… It was God, but it’s out of character for me you know, to be sensitive to His spirit, then actually being obedient, especially when it puts me in an uncomfortable situation.
God laid on my heart to assemble some friends and family to go to Danielle’s house and sing. Yeah, I could hardly believe it myself, but I tried to get as many people as possible to cover my voice or the lack thereof.
It’s not like me to plan too far ahead and this was no different. It was a Thursday we decided to do it. To get set up for the following evening didn’t account for other people’s previous engagements.
I’m fascinated by the groups of people God assembles to do His bidding. Of course, the obedient ones are always the ones who need and get more from the actions than the one we perceive in need.
We have some family friends who happened to have music or lyrics sheets for us to use. There were business associates, (yeah, I remember your singing Tom!). There were friends who were relatively new Christians or prodigals, finding their way back home.
Mostly they were my Lacrosse girls, just about an hour and a half after a grueling Friday practice and the rest of my family. I’m also fascinated the way things never seem to work out the way we plan them. Proof that we’re not in control…
Danielle lived with her single mom and her grandparents in a small humble home northwest of where we live. She attended another of our close family friend’s church on occasion. Danielle was about nine years old and in the middle of her treatment of chemo and radiation treatment for cancer.
When we finally found her house it was way past dusk, but we knew a good part of the songs by heart. To say many of us felt uncomfortable would be a significant understatement. Thank God literally for the Lacrosse girls, many of whom had spent a great deal of time in Choir at school.
When Danielle and her family heard us outside, her mom insisted we all come inside… Gulp… An indoor caroling concert. About twenty of us squeezed into the tiny living room like sardines.
We presented Danielle with a present and began to sing to the little girl with no hair on her head. The family was kind and genuine as they accepted the small gift of songs, the little we had to offer.
After several songs Danielle began to look tired as she gazed at the floor. We exchanged our “Merry Christmas”‘ and “God Bless You’s,” as we began to file out, very few dry eyes in that home.
That was Danielle’s last Christmas… God took the little girl home to be with Him for the rest of her Christmas celebrations.
I can’t say the memory of Danielle and our Christmas caroling incident is a happy memory, in fact, it brings back similar emotions of that night years ago, but I can say I know for sure God used our discipline in trying to care for His other children to bless our lives and change our hearts.
In the end…
Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?
Betty Jo
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 3:59 am
Floyd, what a beautiful story of obedience to your Lord, even when it meant stepping out of your comfort zone. It so blessed me this morning to read this first thing online. I’m sure it blessed Danielle tremendously. As I read this beautiful account of giving, it brought tears to my eyes and the thought of Luke 6:38 to my mind “Give, and it shall be given unto you.” So often when we are obedient and give, no matter if it is “the little we have to offer” it can mean so much to the recipient, and brings much Glory to our Lord. He also multiplies those small gifts. Your obedience gave you a blessing to continue sharing, and will bless those who read your blog, and others who hear the retelling of this beautiful story from all the participants of that evening. Truly a gift that keeps on giving . . . a seed of obedience multiplied again and again.
Floyd
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 4:43 pm
Thanks, Betty Jo. I had a hectic and busy weekend and didn’t have time or even fell led to do another one and felt led to share this… I know for sure I needed a reminder of what is truly important this time of year. Beautiful words laced with the sweet fragrance of wisdom. Bless you, sister.
Bill (cycelguy)
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 6:41 am
Great story Floyd! And what a great thought. I can’t sing worth a lick (so they say since I think I sound fine), but there is a simple joy in caroling or visiting. Least Danielle knew you loved and cared about her. that is worth it all.
Floyd
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 4:44 pm
“A simple joy.” Good call, Bill. That’s exactly what it is. It may not be the most comfortable or even fun things to do, but in the end obedience feels right with our souls. Thanks, Bill.
Lisa notes
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 7:10 am
That’s a beautiful story of obedience, Floyd. And of love. Yes, that is what Christmas is all about, brother!
Floyd
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 4:45 pm
Agreed, Lisa. I just think I needed a reminder. Thanks.
child of God
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 1:22 pm
What a wonderful thing to do for Danielle and her family. A gift from the heart is the very best gift of all.
Blessings brother.
Floyd
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 4:46 pm
The best gifts are always from the heart… It’s just so easy to forget that with time. May we give the greatest gifts this year… the ones that include a little piece of our hearts. Thanks, sister.
Betty Draper
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 2:31 pm
Those sound from your Christmas caroling was heard in heaven. I think about how the angels must long to do what we saints here on earth.
All that gift cost you and the people who went with was time and a willing heart. The blessings of obedience is for anyone too. Good post brother.
Floyd
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 4:48 pm
“The blessings of obedience.” What a wonderful gift that we so easily forget. I needed our Father’s spirit to remind me this year… again. Blessings to you and yours. Thanks, Betty.
Barb Raveling
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 6:33 pm
That’s a beautiful story, Floyd. There’s a certain specialness about being able to reach out to those who are in difficult situations. It brings you close in a way normal life doesn’t it. I’m sure Danielle appreciated the singing and the caring that it represented.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 4:39 pm
I think she just liked the big teddy bear we brought her, but her mom and grandparents appreciated it. I can only imagine something like that… Thanks, Barb.
tcavey
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 7:00 pm
Why’d you have to go off and make me cry, Floyd!
Wonderful story. It reminds me of my favorite Christmas song, “The Little Drummer Boy”. I get chocked up every time I hear it.
I don’t have much to give, but God loves and accepts all gifts- no matter the size or talent.He really is a proud daddy. His love for us proves that love truly is blind. It’s not that He doesn’t see our faults, it’s that His love is greater.
Merry Christmas and thank you for sharing this.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 4:53 pm
I never thought much of the Little Drummer Boy until the lyrics “then He smiled at me…” That hit me like a ton of bricks… and yes, you guessed it. It is now my favorite Christmas song specifically for that reason. Imagine our Father smiling at us… it just doesn’t get any better than that. Perfect Love. Merry Christmas to you and yours to, TC. God bless.
Lynn Morrissey
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 7:04 pm
What a precious gift you gave, Floyd–the gift of joy to a little girl who needed it. And yes, that is what Christmas is about–giving. I would think it was not just the singing that made you uncomfortable, but the suffering from cancer and the possibility of death. It’s hard (at least for me) to be around the dying. But every time I’ve said yes in such a situation, I’m glad I did. When we serve “the least of these,” we serve Christ. And that, too, is what Christmas is about. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. “O Come, all ye faithful.” You came to that room, and so did He!
Fondly.
Lynn
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 4:55 pm
He most certainly was there, Lynn. How we could have used a voice like yours that night! We did pretty good for amateurs. When gifts are from the heart and by the heart of our Father, they can’t help but be good. And I also agree about the gratification in obedience. Not always easy, but always right. Thanks so much, Lynn.
Hazel Moon
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 7:34 pm
To us it may be a small thing, but that evening you touched MANY hearts including those who participated in the caroling. The family was appreciative and the young girl has gone to join the angels as they sing. To show love is often not expensive just takes a bit of our time, but is so rewarding. Thanks for allowing this to show up at Tell Me a Story. http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 4:56 pm
Well said, Hazel. The precious gift of our time shows the true intent of our heart, and I’m with you in terms of the reward involved. We get more than we give… only in our Father’s will. Thanks for letting me be part of your wonderful site and sharing my story there. God bless you and yours, Hazel.
Jennifer Dougan
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 8:06 pm
That’s poignant, Floyd. You should grab some more friends and stop by Danielle’s family’s house this year too, or drop them a card and let them know you are thinking about them right now too. What a gift for them to know that they are not the only ones remembering their loved one this week, month.
Have a great week. I’m sorry for the loss of Danielle.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 4:58 pm
That is an exceptional idea, Jennifer. A few years after that night my wife tracked her mom down on the other side of town to see her and help her out, she was definitely struggling, down and out. I’ll see if we can track them down to do just that. Excellent advice! Thanks, Jennifer.
Lauren Wheeler
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 8:54 pm
That night is one I don’t think I will ever forget. I can still see Danielle’s smile…she was so thankful for the most simple thing.
For some reason that night has always left an impact on me. Thank you for asking all of us to go and for being such a great coach who not only taught us how to play the game, but taught us life lessons by being a servant leader with integrity.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:04 pm
You’re such a blessing to me, Lauren. Probably not too many lacrosse girls were out there doing what you and the others did after a grueling practice. Funny how we remember the success of our team, but with time these things hold more and eternal value. You’re an honorable person Lauren and you bring honor to all who know you… that most certainly includes me and I’m honored and privileged to share your life… Bless you, girl. What a blessing it is to have shared a special and sacred moment in time.
Chuck Allen
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 11:05 pm
That is, indeed, what Christmas is all about. Thanks for sharing that, Floyd. I’m going to share this with my kids as we’ve been talking about ways to share with others during the season.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:05 pm
Thanks, Chuck. This is a reminder from our Father as much for me as it is anybody else to remember the joy of doing Christmas the way our Father intended. Bless you, brother.
Mia
Monday, December 9, 2013 @ 11:27 pm
Dear Floyd
Now you have my heart in tears. Oh, life seems so unfair and it is and even some more. But I am sure Danielle celebrated that Christmas held safely in the arms of Jesus, without pain and illness. Floyd, I may seem unfeeling, but often when we see these wars and unrest in some of the Arab countries where Muslim children are killed; or in India where hundreds of Hindu children die of malnutrition and poverty with no hope due to the casts system of Hinduism, I am oftentimes relieved that they are safe with their Pappa before the evil one could twist their minds into believing his damnable lies. I honestly belive that every single child who dies before they come to an age of accountability, goes straight to heaven. Your memories of Danielle are just so special. Fold, I am going to publish your beautiful post about your dad on this comming Monday. What make was your first car, dear brother? I want to see if I can find a picture to match! I had an old post of Mr Mandela which I just re-edited with his passing away for this week.
Blessings XX
Mia
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:09 pm
I’m with you completely! The children that don’t have to make a choice are the ones who are blessed to be with Him in eternity! I find few of us with that mentality, but I agree with you completely!
My first car was a 1970 competition orange Mercury Cyclone… It is still my favorite car I’ve ever owned. I was looking on your site for that post but it wasn’t up yet? Headed over to check it out.
Danielle is in the arms of our Savior. No better Christmas than that… Thanks, Mia.
Jillie
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 7:03 am
This is a beautiful Christmas story, Floyd. I too, have great anxiety about visiting the terminally ill. It is a hard, hard thing, and yet when we do, we always come away more blessed than the one we sought to bless. And dear Danielle’s Mom will never forget your gift. She probably thinks of it every Christmas. So much hardship and sadness for so many at this time of year–it’s wonderful when we can do something, any thing, to bring some joy into someone’s suffering. You took the Spirit of Christ right into their living room that night.
In case I don’t get back here before…I wish you and your Family peace and pure joy this Christmas, as you celebrate the Prince of Peace, who came for us all.
Merry Christmas, Floyd.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:13 pm
You nailed that perfectly, Jillie. “Tis better to give than to receive.” And the blessings are beyond any other gratification we can experience physically, spiritually is infinitely better. I hope to hear from you, but if I don’t blessing to you and yours as well, Jillie. May God bless you and your family abundantly, sister. Thanks for sharing your wisdom here, you know it is greatly appreciated.
Jason Stasyszen
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 11:34 am
Love this, Floyd. Music, following God’s leading, impacting others with His love–that’s the life for me! And you said something about not planning it out too much, and honestly, I think with some things like this, that’s the better route. When we try to plan these things out so much, we usually find a way to back out. Just do it, as Nike says. Sad but beautiful story, Floyd. Thank you for sharing it.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:15 pm
Music is a supernatural force and gift from out Father. How I love your passion for it, not to mention your music! That’s a good point about just pushing ahead and getting it done before we reason a way out of it. It is sad, but Danielle is sad no more. Praying for her mom and grandparents. Thanks, brother. Excellent word.
Bernard
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 11:39 am
Great Story. You and the others blessed that little girl and her family. It was your act of obedience to the assignment of God. That is what being a Christian is all about.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:16 pm
Amen, Bernard. That pretty much sums it up. We make more of it, but you nailed it. Good call. Thanks, Bernard.
Rick Dawson
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:10 pm
Christmas and cancer? I was tearing up just starting into the post.
Keep being obedient, brother – keep on keeping on.
Floyd
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 5:27 pm
I know this hits close to home for you, brother. Thanks for your encouragement. And I will along with you. Thanks, Rick.
Dan Black
Tuesday, December 10, 2013 @ 11:35 pm
What an experience. Almost losing my son at birth gives me a greater appropriation that he is well and living today(Even during those temper tantrums). Thank you for this heart warming story.
Floyd
Wednesday, December 11, 2013 @ 6:19 pm
Amen, Dan. What a gift each day we have with our loved ones is. Glad you count the blessings, Dan… and reminding me to. Thanks!
Dan Black
Wednesday, December 11, 2013 @ 7:42 pm
Amen!
Joanne Norton
Wednesday, December 11, 2013 @ 3:33 pm
Floyd, you truly touched my heart. And this comment portion of yours is truly an “it”: but I can say I know for sure God used our discipline in trying to care for His other children to bless our lives and change our hearts.
Such a blessing to her and the family. And, when you and yours enter heaven, she’ll be standing there grinning and hugging and loving in great appreciation.
You just touched me very intensely. I understand the gift you and yours gave.
Bless you, Bro.
Floyd
Wednesday, December 11, 2013 @ 6:22 pm
My heart is moved by yours, Joanne. I know how big yours is. You bring honor and blessings here, sister. Thank you.
Caleb Suko
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 12:05 am
I remember the first Christmas after our one year old son was diagnosed with cancer. We attended the pediatric oncology unit’s Christmas party. Towards the end of the party they remembered all the “angels” those children that didn’t make it to Christmas that year. It was hard and I still think about that Christmas party often.
Floyd
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 5:49 pm
Painful memories, yet we are comforted to know those cherished children are with the One that cherishes them most. Thanks for sharing your story, Caleb. It’s so close to home for you that it makes it more so for me as well.
Micah
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 5:56 am
Floyd, this got me kind of emotional. God bless you for being obedient and for choosing, over your own discomfort, to give His christmas gift to that little girl.
“the obedient ones are always the ones who need and get more from the actions than the one we perceive in need.” A line you wrote as a throwaway-by-the-by, but that just hit me and made me pause to think. Very deep, very true. One I’ll have to chew on awhile. Thank you for sharing this post.
Floyd
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 5:51 pm
I know when you “chew” on something mentally that profound and wise thoughts are forth coming and I’m looking forward to them, Micah. May we all be in obedience this season and all the seasons of our lives. Thanks, Micah.
Brenda
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 11:42 am
You got me crying again! That’s okay.Coming to that little girl’s house and singing to her, is by far the best gift that you gave her. Wonderful Christmas Story, my friend!
Floyd
Thursday, December 12, 2013 @ 5:53 pm
We are blessed to give. I often seem to misplace that thought, Brenda. We need to remind one another. Thanks for sharing, sister.
Loren Pinilis
Wednesday, December 18, 2013 @ 11:21 am
What a great tale. I’m so glad that you took the time to listen and obey when you felt that inner prompting.
Floyd
Wednesday, December 18, 2013 @ 6:02 pm
I don’t always succeed, but it the bitter/sweet lesson is gratifying in my spirit. Thanks, Loren.