| Many
Lessons in Living can be gleaned from the field of music.
Let's take, for example, the need for consistency in order
to build confidence as a piano performer: all that is
needed is for one to put the right finger
on the right key at the right time
in the right manner and repeat
it over & over.
Mastering
a selection takes time. Mastering a selection takes perseverance.
Mastering a selection takes consistency. In time, speed
builds, keys are struck easily, correctly, and then, joy
of joys, as we fly across the keys creating stirring sounds!
When we get to the point where we can sit back, relax,
and enjoy our own performance, we have arrived at a most
rewarding plateau. The ultimate thrill comes when we perform
flawlessly and confidently while bringing joy to others.
Playing
or singing in a group also builds confidence. There has
to be unity, there has to be focus, and there has to be
consistency. Once the conductor raises his arms and the
beat begins, there is a thrill that comes in no other
way. Conducting music is like painting a beautiful picture.
In order to perform confidently, many repetitions must
be executed. With each flawless repetition comes increased
confidence.
How
well would we perform if we did not schedule practices?
What would happen if there were no consistency to our
efforts? It is vital that we prioritize our time and spend
it in pursuit of worthwhile activities. Otherwise, we
will "Flutter in all directions and fly in none."
One of the most disastrous habits of our day is that of
becoming distracted. It seems but a small matter, but
it can cause us to fritter our lives away with too much
recreation, too much media, and too much idle time.
We
should learn to prioritize. We should schedule important
activities and then honor our commitments. One of the
most helpful forms to use is a Weekly
Schedule which depicts our time in half-hour segments.
Somehow, when we actually block out time for activities
our lives become much more productive.
My
mother didn't have a Weekly Schedule but she did have
cracked wheat mush steaming away in a double boiler every
morning when we arose. My grandmothers didn't have the
conveniences we enjoy, but they were consistent and productive.
As a consequence, their offspring have all the confidence
in the world!
As
I listen to the train whistle blow at 4:15 every morning
I ponder on the consistency of conductors, pilots, health
and school personnel. What a great service they give!
Their consistency helps build our confidence
in them!
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