With the 2005 NQC behind us, the Southern Gospel world is returning to it's normal routine and the artists are heading off to their weekend dates. But the memories remain.

Like most people, there is one specific moment of the 2005 NQC that stands out in my mind. No, it wasn't a super performance on the main stage or one of Tim Lovelace's antics at the Fan Awards.

Instead, it was at the Singing News booth, about mid-way through the evening on Tuesday. Reagan Riddle of the Primitive Quartet came over, stuck out his hand and said, "Just wanted to say bye before we left." Fiercely loyal to their home churches, the group was leaving Louisville so they could be home for Wednesday night services.

Reagan went on to say that he hated to go because he would miss being there and he'd miss the people they had come into contact with on Monday and Tuesday. In addition to many fans, several artists had gone by and spent time with the guys at the Primitives' booth and on more than ocassion, the talks had turned very spiritual and lives were touched.

Granted, that particular moment doesn't sound like much as you read the words. But if you could have heard the inflection in Reagan's voice or saw his misty eyes, you'd realize that something special had taken place over at that booth in the 200 Aisle.

You see, over at that booth, the priority wasn't sales, attendence, conversations about what was on the internet or who got to sing when. It was about the message that Southern Gospel Music takes to the listener. Instead of just singing about it, these guys put it into action.

Don't get me wrong. I'm sure there are many other artists who are just as sincere about what they do as the Primitives. I'm singling them out because Reagan came over to the booth and they were in the forefront of my mind.

Southern Gospel Music has many fine people within its ranks, both performing and non-performing. Those people keep plugging along, attending to their own - and the Father's - business.

Those are the ones who will keep Southern Gospel Music alive through dark times - and more importantly, make a positive impact on lives.