This resident spotlight was edited by resident Martha Hopler.
You may have heard Sandra’s beautiful, soprano voice singing at different community events like the Christmas Choir Concert, Happy Hour, and more recently during our Valentine’s Theme Dinner. But did you know that Sandra is also an experienced choir director?
The first time Sandra directed a choir, she was only 18 years old and still in high school. She filled in for her teacher and would occasionally volunteer for the Vacation Bible School Choir during the summer. When her Pastor was looking for a part-time director, at 20 years old, she jumped at the chance and was paid only $40 per week. When she nervously went to direct the choir that night, she acted like she knew what she was doing because, before that moment, she had never considered herself a professional. She must've done a great job because they doubled her pay to $80 dollars a week! From that moment, choir directing has been a ministry for Sandra wherever she went.
Later in life, Sandra moved to St. Mary’s, Georgia to be closer to her grandkids. At 68 years young, she began choir directing at St. Mary’s Baptist Church. She enjoyed traveling and performing at festivals in Northern Georgia. But then choir directing came to a halt.
The day she moved into Arbor Terrace, she said a prayer and asked the Lord to use her however He can. Sandra says, ”I just sit back in amazement at what God does. Sometimes, I think he looks at me & says HA! I’ll show you what I can do…through you!” Our Engagement Director asked Sandra to consider directing Arbor Terrace's Choir. She never thought at 83, she would be directing another choir.
Sandra feels honored, blessed, and thrilled that God still has use for her through her gifts and abilities! We sure feel the same way too! Our entire community is blessed to have you, your experience, and your lovely singing voice, Sandra.