We hosted another holiday Karaoke sing at the Mansion Friday afternoon, I can’t say how much I love those Karaoke sessions, they involve the residents in a direct and intimate and interactive way, the residents tell me they love to come and sing and watch each other sing.

The staff joined in today – Bonnie, Dorlisa, Sarah, Julie – and it seemed it brought this small and intimate community together in a very special way.

I think the Karaoke Machine is one of the best ideas we  have brought to the Mansion – thanks for your support of it. It engages the residents in a very joyous and particular way, there was much laughing and clapping.

Madeline, who is in her mid-90’s, is former stage and drama actor, she can sing most of the Christmas songs in several different languages as well as English.

Tuesday, I’m going back to the Mansion to read to the residents on New Year’s morning. This takes very little of my time, but is precious to me.

Through the Karaoke, I am learning something about the uplifting joy of music, the powerful metaphor of lifting our voices up to the sky.

I can see how good this is for the residents, how into it they are. I hope to keep this going regularly, I see the makings of a choir here.

– You support of the Mansion work is critical. If you care to contribute in any amount (small donations are as welcome as big ones), you can do so via Paypal, [email protected], you can send a check to me, Jon Katz. c/o The Mansion Fund, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816. You can also use the “Support The Army Of Good” button at the bottom of every blog post.

Thanks much.