Time for a Tune-Up

I had not planned to blog today, but in light of the tragedy that has hit the CG Choral program I have to make an exception.  I learned upon my arrival in Rome about the tragic accident that took the life of  Marieluise Wartmann.  Marie was such a sweet and caring girl…always wanting a hug!  Her personality coupled with her amazing talent as a vocalist makes it even more difficult to handle.  Today I spent the majority of the day at the Vatican.  In St. Peter’s Basilica a mass was in session and with the choir of angelic nuns singing, the drone of the organ resonating  in this huge ornate church, and the smell of incense burning made it difficult to think of anything but Marie.  I think I remember her telling me that I was in church the day she was baptized, which brings me some comfort in knowing that her faith was strong.  However, I know that the mourning and grieving will begin once the shock of this situation has subsided.  As for now, there are no words to say…simply my prayers and thoughts are in Greenwood, IN and with Marie’s family in Florida.