Several years ago, I
sang “Silent Night” on national television, backed by The Spirit Chorale of Los Angeles. It was accomplished by
overcoming a fear that gripped my very vocal chords. I had sung in church for over 40 years, but the thought of singing before
millions of viewers on an iconic show was a lot to consider. But, I did it. I recall a voice coming to me (God, intuition,
you name it) asking five simple questions:
1. What’s the largest audience you’ve
stood before?
Answer:
900
2. How large is the studio audience at the
show?
Answer:
About 150
3. Have you ever sung “Silent Night”
before?
Answer:
Yes, many times
4. Do you know what the song is about?
Answer:
Yes, the birth of Jesus
5. So what’s your problem?
Answer: [Silent courage]
That experience has
a powerful meaning. It says any fearful situation can be reduced to a few simple questions. It’s about striping
fear into manageable pieces and then reassembling them to overcome fear of the future. My gift to you is a rendering of Silent Night, similar to the arrangement
I performed with the Chorale. I wish you peace as you face your challenges.
—Cheryl Farrell
