music

Music is just so powerful.  I personally think that it's a special gift from God unlike anything else.

From elementary school musicals, to voice and piano lessons, to U of A choir, to church music...music has always played a HUGE role in my life. 

My family loves music.  There is nothing that gives the Bentons greater joy than a sing-a-long in the car or around the piano or around the guitar.

Yes, there were a million times when I was little that I wanted to quit taking lessons, but because my parents wouldn't let me, I'm able to enjoy it the way I do today. 
(Shoutout to you, Mom and Dad!)

So many people have spent insane amounts of time helping me improve my musical ability and for them I will forever be grateful. They just deserve so much credit!!

One in particular changed my life:  Mrs. Fonda (Lofton) Mann

You know when you just need someone to believe in you even when no one else does? That was her.  Mrs. Fonda was the woman who spent so much time making sure I learned to love and appreciate music, but in the meantime she made sure to also be that wise best friend that I needed.  I will always cherish those Tuesday afternoons in her living room.  With any music I perform, I can't help but think of her.  

This year, she finally convinced me to sing in my Soprano voice on the Miss Arkansas stage.  I should've listened to her all along!
(Love you, Mrs. Fonda)

All that being said, one thing that I've loved about competing in the Miss America Organization is the talent aspect of the competition.  At the end of the day,  it is always so special to stand on a big stage in a beautiful gown and pour your heart into a song for all of your family and friends.

  
At Miss Arkansas 2017, I continued to tell myself, it wasn't my "Miss Arkansas talent performance," but, "my one opportunity to stand on the Robinson Auditorium stage and sing my heart out through a solo for a huge crowd....all while wearing an amazing ballgown." I think it helped. ;) 

Moving forward, I am so excited to see how God decides to use music in my life as the years progress.  For now, I am so thankful that it is through my year as Miss Arkansas!