It is done. Granny woke up. Shared a few insights, toyed with the boys in the audience and then, went back to sleep. Voices sang out. Laughter filled the hall. Clapping. Cheers. Ola’s and Bravos streamed through the air. John Langford, the inspiration behind The Madison shared his stories of Christmases far from home, Kathy Christiansen, Exec. Dir of Alpha House shared the meaning of the amazing work they are doing and the gathered guests of 35+ soaked in their words and felt their hearts and minds opening — not to mention their wallets too! In the end, this little event that began as just a thought for a house concert to support Christmas at the Madison raised close to $800. And we all had an amazing time.

It is done.

And I am grateful.

Grateful for the amazing artists who stood up and said, “Sure. I’ll play and sing. I’ll share my gifts to support such a worthy endeavour.”

Grateful to Kathy and the team at Alpha House for saying, “Sure. You do it, we’ll support you.” Which they did. They arranged for two residents of Madison House to come to the event and picked them up when it was over. They’ve also gone out and got the tree, organized with the residents and are all set for Liseanne, my youngest daughter, and the volunteers she’s brought together, to arrive Wednesday evening to decorate and put up Christmas throughout the building. They’ll also be interviewing the residents, asking them for their Christmas Wish which I’ll be putting up here in case anyone wants to participate.

Cameron, one of the residents who came to the concert,  asked at the beginning of the evening if he could share a few words of thanks at the end of the programme. The heartfelt gratitude of his words wove their way into the hearts of everyone there. There was magic in the air. In his thanks Cameron turned to John Langford, asked him to stand and told him, “You saved my life.” If there was a dry eye in the place, it wasn’t mine.

What was also so beautiful and touching about Cameron’s remarks was that he made sure he met each of the performers before the evening began and when he gave thanks, wove what they did into his words that spoke of the legacy of military service.

Michelle Warkentin and her puppet Granny brought Humour. Having a sense of humour is really important when you’re in the military, Cameron said and the audience laughed.

Felipe Paredes, whose Spanish guitar, sultry Latin looks and deep, rich baritone set every woman’s heart pounding, brought Strength, said Cameron. He spoke of the strength of Felipe’s voice and how military life requires strength, and a deep commitment to being of service. — and from my perspective, Felipe also represents spontaneity, and the ability to respond to the call of being of service without question. He only heard about the event on Sunday from my daughters’ friend Caitlin. When asked if he’d perform, he didn’t hesitate. And we are so grateful he did. He was amazing!

Alexis and James brought Passion, Cameron told the audience. And passion is vital if you are to be of service. Alexis’ voice also made him cry, (and that’s a good thing because tears are a sign of strength).

And Taylor and Luke, he finished off, brought it all together. Their amazing performance wrapped the whole event up in laughter, strength and passion.

I am so grateful.

For those who came and shared of their TIME. TALENTS. TREASURES.

Thank you.

Along with the performers there were all sorts of people pitching in to make it possible.

Andrea and the Calgary Homeless Foundation printed off the programs.

Kathy’s husband whipped up three trays of incredibly delicious and beautiful appetizers that were devoured, and what little was left went home with two of the young performers whose eyes lit up when they realized there was food to be had for the taking. (Young boys with big appetites grow up to be young men with big appetites!)

My friend Tamara “baked” a tray of scrumdillyicious crescent moon cookies — the few left also went home with the performers.

My daughter Liseanne sat at the front table greeting guests and collecting tickets and generally keeping tabs of all the goings on to ensure nothing and no one was left out.

C.C., my beloved, came early with me to the venue to help set up, racing off to pick-up water and change for the float, doing whatever it took to ensure the evening went smoothly. As did the incredible Howard Parsons, who along with his wonderful wife and my dear friend Kerry, gave us the space to hold the concert. Howard was there Sunday afternoon with me setting up chairs and arranging the venue and also came early to help hang cloth to drape a doorway and help out with whatever else needed doing.

David Thomas, a 19th Century preacher and publisher wrote, “Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls.” 

There were many radiant pages written on the beautiful souls of those who came and sang and shared their stories  and gifts and talents last night. My heart is full with gratitude and love.

Thank you.