That For Which I Am Thankful

I have not posted to this blog since August. I really do not know what has happened, for I have had plenty of experiences in the last three months worth an entry. Perhaps I must simply plead my busyness. But now I am at home for Thanksgiving, and my to-do list is still full but not pressing, and I would like to recap the last three months by sharing some of what I am giving thanks for this week.

I am incredibly thankful for my wonderfully supportive family. Pardon my excessive adverbs, but I find them necessary. I could not ask for a more supportive, more loving family, especially my parents. I am also very grateful that I am able to see my parents and other family members so often, whether back in Oak Park or in Wheaton.

Needless to say, I am exceptionally grateful for Wheaton College. I plan to reflect more on the whole of my Wheaton experience sometime in the spring, but I felt the need to acknowledge the tremendous influence the institution has had on my life in this context. The College, in my opinion, really does live its mission to develop whole and effective Christians.

I also want to note my specific gratitude for the Conservatory of Music at Wheaton College. This fall is, in a way, my last semester as a music major, and I know that I will miss the experience greatly. I have come to realize this semester in particular just how learned, how dedicated, and how caring is the Conservatory faculty, and I am especially grateful for their investment in my education. The Conservatory’s support staff has been a real blessing as well.

I am also grateful for many successful performances this semester. I had my senior recital about three weeks ago; despite being more draining in the last two weeks of preparation than I had anticipated, I was overall quite pleased with the performance and grateful for the entire experience. Four days later, I had the privilege of conducting the Symphonic Band in concert; I am grateful for a successful performance there and that whole experience as well. And just this past weekend, the Conservatory was privileged to present, under the banner of the Artist Series, the final event in Wheaton College’s 150th Anniversary Celebration. This sold-out concert featured the band and College choirs performing the world premiere of “O Greening Branch,” commissioned specifically for our anniversary year, and the orchestra, College choirs, and two guest choirs performing Brahms’ “Ein Deutsches Requiem.” It was an incredible evening of music, and I am very grateful to have been a part of it.

I could go on and on about other people, places, things, and experiences for which I am giving thanks this week; the few items I have mentioned here are but a snapshot. I will conclude by noting just how grateful I am for a God who showers me with blessings and who is worthy to receive thanks and praise.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This is Rubio, over and out.