Today I'm thinking about the ripple effect of things we do. I write this, having just returned from a wonderful weekend with my oldest son, daughter-in-law and 12-year-old granddaughter. My granddaughter Olivia is fortunate to be part of the Lawrence University Girl Choir Program in Appleton, Wisconsin. This program each year involves more than 300 girls from ages 8 through 18 in choirs for their age group and ability. It helps the girls develop music-reading skills, vocal technique, an awareness of a wide range of musical styles from classical to jazz to various ethnic types and builds their confidence as well. I am thrilled that Olivia is able to participate in such a program.
This past Sunday the choirs presented their spring concert. As we left the concert, my daughter-in-law and I reflected on the amazing ripple effect in the girls' lives and in their communities through all the years this program has been running. Think of what each of them has taken and is taking away and what they're sharing in their families and communities to say nothing of what this might mean they'll share in the future. They are not only learning the skills of music but an enjoyment and appreciation of it, and they are learning the value of diversity—and so much more. These are things they'll take out into the world now and well into the future.
It's made me reflect on the ripple effect of things in which I participate—and of things I do. What effect are your actions, your thoughts having on you, your family, your community and your world today? Are you bringing more light into the world today? Or taking light out of the world? Am I spreading contentment and joy—or planting seeds of discontent?
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