Last Minute - The Lethbridge Journal

A Note from
the Editor
I was recently
“Amplified” at
St. Francis Junior
High School
Submitted to the Lethbridge Journal
I think my Mother’s Day expectations may be a little high.
Since becoming a mother, I have realized exactly how much of herself a woman has to
give to successfully bring up children and maintain a happy home. Certainly, in my eyes,
that work and sacrifice should be met with nothing short of fall-down adoration, lavish
gifts and intense spoiling in May of each year. And maybe a shopping spree.
Hello, again!
This week I’m climbing down from my soapbox. I could probably spout off about any
number of issues but I’m taking a break from complaining. I’ll bet you’re only too happy
about that. Instead, I would like to share a much more pleasant experience with you.
Just recently, I attended a social event where a portion of the entertainment was provided
by a group of young people from St. Francis Junior High School. They have formed
a band called “Amplified,” consisting of three guitarists, a keyboard player and six singers.
And they are amazing! I was impressed enough that I decided to dig a little deeper
into their background.
Their group was formed under the watchful eye and tireless efforts of their music
teacher, Mr. Hartman, in order to promote the arts as part of Alberta Arts Days (September
28 – 30, 2011). At that time, with only a few rehearsals under their collective
belt, they performed at schools in Taber and Coaldale. Since then, things have snowballed
and they have shared their talents on several different occasions, much to the
delight of their audiences.
Sadly, it doesn’t happen quite that way in our house! Don’t get me wrong - my kids love
me and they are sure to tell me so each Mother’s Day - in fact, every day. I am greatly
blessed with three very affectionate and loving little people. But they are young yet, and
can’t really understand exactly how intense this mothering thing is.
It got me thinking how funny it is that in the thick of teaching, correcting and disciplining,
when you most desperately need affirmation and accolades that you’re doing ok, you
don’t get it. Kids can’t really give the affirmation because they don’t really get it.
I know they will get it, and years from now when the arguments, sassiness and disobedience
are long past, they’ll thank me - really thank me - and tell me all the things I did
well. It’s a comfort as I wade through another day of mess-cleaning, meal-making and
refereeing sibling arguments.
These students present themselves as a unified group. There is no one single star – they
all share the spotlight equally. For the most part, they choose their own music, decide
who is going to sing what parts and, well, go on from there. Aside from playing at their
school, their most recent gig (that’s music-speak for appearance) was at the fundraiser
for Woods Homes, held at the Lodge Hotel where they did a 40-minute set. I’m told
that when they were introduced as being 13, 14 and 15 year olds, the audience was
more than duly impressed. What is even more impressive is that their teacher and mentor,
Mr. Hartman, donates hours of his own time to help them rehearse and prepare for
each performance.
This group of eight girls and two boys is a fine example of what young people can accomplish
with some help and encouragement from dedicated teachers and loving parents
who can see their potential. We should all be a little bit humbled by this awesome
group of young musicians. Let’s hope they continue in their endeavours.
Until next time.
Pat. G
In the meantime, I’ll be sure to tell my mom how much I appreciate her. Because now I
know!
Is published bi-weekly by
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Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1
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