The Guilt & Honor of “Comedy & Tragedy”

One of my resolutions for this year was to resign as the Drama Coordinator of my church. I have enjoyed it but after a year on the job, the Drama Department still continues to be a party of one. (“Me”) Combined with my increasing travel schedule with my employer this year, I have very little time for any theatre projects I am sad to say. Two weeks ago I did resign my position which was accepted with warmth and understanding as well as an agreement that I will still act as a consultant and perform when needed if time permits. While my conscience is clear, I still feel a bit guilty about leaving.

Last night I accepted an invitation to their annual choir banquet and had a good time socializing with the parishioners, choir members and enjoying a good meal. There was an award ceremony recognizing certain people for their contributions and much to my surprise, I was presented with a plaque of appreciation for my theatre work in the church over the past 4 years. Needless to say I was touched and honored. Of course now I feel even more guilt for abandoning my post. Part of my “real world” job requires a lot of administrative work which has carried over into one of my passions being theatre and the arts. I involved myself in performing as a creative outlet to escape from my day job, not to become a second job with similar responsibilities. I still feel I have made the correct decision but when they presented me with that award last night……well…..my mind started struggling with all this again.

All of this rambling aside, this small token of affection is every bit as special to me as the Lary Award I finally won last year in community theatre, They both have a special place in the display case and in my heart.

TAH

P.S. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!! Drinks anyone?