Stage Fright

by Kay Heitsch

When our grandson Eli was 3 years old, he joined the Rainbow Choir. He was one of the youngest children in it.

One day our son-in-law stopped in to pick him up from practice. Much to his surprise, all the children were singing one song, but Eli was singing his own song, "Ba Ba Black Sheep Have You Any Wool." at the top of his lungs. :D

The Sunday came when all the children were to sing for church. Eli marched up with the rest of the children, but he ran off the platform crying when the music started.

Eli continued in the choir, but instead of singing, he just stood with his hands folded, staring straight ahead. We thought he must have stage fright.

One thing I like to do when I visit is to read Eli and Noah Bible stories. Eli loves the story about David and Goliath. I can really get into reading that story! Eli has no doubt that David is the hero with God's help.

Now Eli is 6 years old. He has joined the older children's choir. Once a year, this older children's choir put on a play. This year it's going to be about David and Goliath.

Much to our surprise, Eli announced that he was going to ask the choir director if he could be David. Our daughter explained to him that he would need to sing a solo. Eli didn't seem to care. He believes he is ready to take the lead role :D

I'm thrilled that Eli relates to the story of David and Goliath. This story has given him the courage to believe that he'll be able to conquer his stage fright to sing a solo.

Time will tell if he is given the part. Whether he does or not, I'm very proud that Eli is willing to try and not allow stage fright to hold him back.