With Sing Song coming up in three weeks, the hype for the show continues to grow among many students and staff. However, there are many students who are growing in stress every time they attend a rehearsal over doing homework that night.

Many students, especially those gifted in the creative arts, take great joy in singing parodies of their favorite songs side-by-side with their brothers and sisters in club or in their class acts.

Likewise, many students find stress in taking away time from their day for an event that may mean little-to-nothing for them when they could be studying or working at a job.

These students may feel stuck, obligated to perform and rehearse because “it’s tradition,” “you have to do it at least once” or “you don’t have a choice, you will do it.”

To the students who feel they have too much on their plate physically or emotionally and only go to rehearsals because of the reasons I just mentioned, let me tell you one thing: it is okay to not do Sing Song.

There are many who attend Sing Song when they already have a laundry list of responsibilities, so to those who think one more responsibility will break them, then I ask you get rid of weight you don’t need to carry.

This isn’t to reject the work that those who enjoy Sing Song have put in. This allows these students to express their creativity, bond with close friends and be a part of the history of the university.

As a side note, let me say that there are reasonable obligations. If your family has already bought tickets and hotel rooms or your involvement inspired and helped a good friend, then I’d encourage you to stick it through; it’ll be over soon.

However, this doesn’t mean I encourage putting away work. Attend rehearsals, but sit in the back and do homework until you’re ready to join in. In some cases, you’ll pick up the songs and choreography just by watching.

But, if this is not possible, then take a break where one is needed. If you’re scared about what others may think of you, don’t be. No matter if it seems that way, your worth is not found in your director, your club or your class’ perception of you. Remember that God’s love for you engulfs all of this and that he calls us to rest.