Marked for Life

September 13, 2009 contained one of the those “Marker Moments” in life that changed something inside me so completely I will forever remember the day as life before and life after…

My sons were always extremely close. And when Stephen was alive, he played an integral role in Michael’s interest in music composition – both as a source of inspiration and as an advisor.

Yesterday afternoon, I had the privilege of sitting in a recital hall at Winthrop University as an ensemble of professional musicians (piano, flute, clarinet, violin and cello led by a conductor) performed and recorded an original composition by Michael Dropps titled, “Portrait of a Broken Mind”.

This was the first time Michael’s music has been performed publicly and it was magnificent! The arrangement was particularly meaningful because it was a tribute he wrote for Stephen. Michael truly poured his heart into revealing Stephen’s soul through this piece and he nailed it. I could almost see Stephen sitting with us, his chin in his hand, nodding to the rhythm and wearing a huge grin.

As a mom, nothing could move me more than to see Michael completely engaged in the music he loves, to watch him advise the performers as they practiced the piece, to hear their positive comments about his work, to observe how much his wife Jessica loves him and supports his dreams, and to know that Stephen continues to live on through Michael’s obedience to the call God has placed on his life.

I wish I could have frozen the moment and lived in it forever – it was that good! And when I consider the spectacular series of events that God orchestrated to make this event a reality, I am once again stunned by His power, His grace, and His love for us.

For more information, check out Michael’s website at www.michaeldropps.com. I expect him to have photos and audio posted shortly!

Once again, I have witnessed evidence that when we are where we are supposed to be, using our passions as God intended, all of heaven sings!

Do you know the wonder of living in the purpose that God intended for your life? That place where all of your gifts, passions, and experiences combine to bring glory to your Creator? I would love to hear about your experiences! Take a minute and leave a comment below.

If you’ve never known this power, let me hear from you as well. I’d love to point you toward the source that can fill your life with direction and meaning. You can’t even imagine how good your life can be!