I have the misfortune or pleasure, depending on the day, to help lead a group of youth in my area. This week, one of the young women went off about there being no need for a chorister for congregational singing numbers.  She didn’t understand what they were for, besides swinging their arms, and thought that nobody watched them anyway. So, she wanted to get rid of the position altogether.

I would be liar if I didn’t admit moments like these require me to grit my teeth and force a smile. After all, she thinks all old people just don’t “get” her or her generation. We adults in the room have to carefully craft our words to pull her back from every insane thought she wants to pursue.

In this instance, a chorister is an invaluable person who helps keep the accompanists and the congregation in time with one another. I can agree with her that many people don’t understand music or know how to use the chorister correctly, but getting rid of the position altogether would cause unnecessary chaos.

Dear, sweet, youth…

Lack of understanding in an area is not a reason to get rid of something. Even if you think the rules are archaic and past their time, first seek to understand why the rule is there in the first place. It’s the only way to ensure you make wise decisions.