Don’t Rain on My Parade

One of my best friends got married this week. It was a lovely occasion and I was so grateful that I could share in her joy in person, especially with so many who were kept away because of Covid-19. 

The week before the celebration my friend asked me if I would sing a song at the wedding dinner. I told her I would gladly sing. She suggested a specific song, but left it open for me to pick a song. 

I went about brainstorming wedding songs I could sing. One challenge I recognized was that I was only willing to sing songs that spoke truth. Love songs largely sing about how “I can’t live without you” and “let’s sleep together because this moment may never come again”… etc. What a lame thing to sing about false ideas of love to celebrate real love and the beginning of a beautiful journey together!

At one point after considering many songs I concluded that I needed to tell her I could not sing. I have not sung a lot lately and I just could not imagine myself opening up to sing to an audience. It felt very vulnerable. I intended to tell her at the bridal shower, but I did not. 

The next day I sat down at the piano and opened up a songbook with my heart open to feel if there was a song that felt right. I found it. “Don’t Rain on My Parade” I sang it to my kids and enjoyed the belting as I told them, “Don’t tell me not to fly. I’ve simply got to,” and “Nobody. No. Nobody is gonna rain on my parade!” 

My friend had been grieving so many cancellations of close family members to the wedding. It felt perfect to send the message that in spite of Covid-19, fear, imperfections, challenges, they were going to enjoy their marriage to the fullest and celebrate their love, and I was going to sing. 

I brought my song to my parents’ home and found a track to use for accompaniment. My mom and I belted over and over in the kitchen as I worked through a bit of the timing, etc. 

Celebration day came and I arrived to the celebration, settled the sound arrangements for the song and got acquainted/re-acquainted with my friend’s family and new in-laws. It was a delightful afternoon and evening to connect with those she loves. 

I felt nervous anticipating my spot in the program, but prayed and breathed for peace. When my turn came, I walked up and sang the message of my heart, smiling to my friend and her husband and family. Did I fumble over a few words? Oh yeah. Was I nervous? Yep. And was it perfect? Yes, it was. 

What I had to offer was complete. I had a battle within myself as I prepared, but I faced my fears and gave what I had to give. It was enough. It was all that was needed. 

What kind of battles have you fought within yourself? I know I’m not alone in this. I invite you to shout to the fears and doubts, “Don’t Rain on My Parade!!” You are enough. Your offering can be perfect, if not flawless. 

Bravely,

K..