The Big Apple was the setting. Her heart was beating intensely, she knew it was time, she knew this was different. Her eyes moving from side to side and every vein in her face was filled with the pressure of every muscle concentrated in the task. Pain and struggle filled the atmosphere, and in a moment, joy and calm reign the room. It was the fourth of May at 3:00 am when it all began.

That day a voice surged, and it was heard powerfully like prophesying the passion that would guide her steps for the rest of her life. It wasn’t understood that way at the time, like many other great voices that had emerged, it was confused to be “another” voice. But her voice that day was rehearsing to what would be her lifelong task; To praise the Almighty. A strong voice, a humble heart, loving hands, and a firm spirit.

May four, that day it all started. That day a promise was brought to life. A promise of a life filled with joy, hope, potential, and praise. Also a life that would see many obstacles, scars and trials which had tried to silence her voice. But praise always found its way from her heart to her lungs and resounded in her voice.

Today that voice continues to be heard. Sometimes in the wee hours of the morning or late at night, her voice reverbs the words of the One that gave her purpose, and gave her her voice.

May four, that was the day that the woman I love was born, and that day my promise was born, too.

Happy birthday Sandy!