Daily Foot-Washing

At the Maunday Thursday Service this evening we will hear again the story of Jesus washing his disciples feet.  In reflecting on this amazing story, it occurred to me that this attitude of humility and service is critical to those of us working in the creative arts- To "bow and to bend" as the Shaker hymn states, when we are attempting to link arms with other artists.

I am embarrassed by how often I try to put forward my ideas, and am less apt to get behind someone else's vision.  Rehearsing notes and rhythms is, in a sense, the easiest part of practicing in a group! The harder parts (for me) are to be truly united with my neighbor, to keep my sound in balance with his or her voice, and to be so attentive to the other parts in the ensemble that I forget about myself completely!  This attitude of washing each other's feet is a daily choice-one I often push aside.