Chaiya Zahara

As long as I can remember, music has been a part of my life. My father sung in a gospel group. He mingled with the likes of Edward Hawkins. My aunt and uncle played piano. On holidays the entire family would get together and sing familiar gospel songs. When I was a young girl I was one of the soloist in our church choir. I used to go with my mother to musicals at different churches. I remember watching people become so emotional that they'd cry while a choir or group was singing a song.

Trials of life have taught me the power of praise and worship. Now I understand where the tears and shouts of joy came from. When I did not know what to say or how to pray, I remembered the lyrics “yes Jesus love’s me.” Music had become an essential part of my life. I sing when I’m happy, I sing when I’m sad, and I sing when I’m angry. Music is the source of my strength. These songs became the essence and power of my personal worship. My experiences, situations and circumstances are like the lyrics and melodies of a ballad. I’ve heard other songs and even sung them myself. They brought healing, peace and joy to my life. Now I write my own lyrics.