Run Free is an upbeat, fun, colorful and contemporary jazz piece inspired by the endearing and impactful children's book, You Are Special, by Max Lucado. In the storybook, we are introduced to Wemmicks, who are wooden toys/people living in a village - they are all uniquely made by a woodcarver with a purpose. If a Wemmick can do handstands, jump high or sing pretty songs, they are given star stickers from each other as compliments and adoration. On the other hand, if a Wemmick falls or is perceived to lack talent, they receive black dots representing disapproval. In your life, have you ever tried to gather stars to prove something? Have you been given black dots as rejections? Sometimes, we might just identify with praise or criticism so much to the point of hurting ourselves. Until, we're reminded by faithful friends, to let them all fall off, as we embrace our value, worth and freedom only found in Jesus. 

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Run Free was premiered as part of Arise, presented by Second City Dance Ministry showcasing 7 different creative expressions portraying the hope and healing offered walking with a life with Christ. Run Free features original songs written and composed by worship leaders Eliza Cruz and Jo-Ed Ancheta and a poem written by Rebecca Diane Huang and performed/enhanced by Eliza Cruz. ​