Chapter 1: The Intersection of Life and Music

Recently, while at a Starbucks, I overheard two gentlemen discussing their lives, family dynamics, and relationships. Their conversation highlighted how personality differences can lead to conflicts. One gentleman spoke about his strained relationship with his biological father, contrasting it with the meaningful connection he had with his stepfather, who had always been present. With the stepfather now gone, he still longs for that paternal presence, while his biological father remains distant.

Listening to their exchange prompted me to reflect on my own father, who was merely fifteen years older than me and often felt more like an older brother. When he passed away at sixty-three, I was struck by two thoughts: the sadness that he wouldn’t witness his grandchildren grow up and a sense of relief that I would no longer face the possibility of disappointment.

As I absorbed their conversation, I noticed the frustration in his voice as he pondered what might inspire his father to become more engaged. This reflection led me to envision a piano, where each key symbolizes a different individual, each with their unique perspectives and ways of being.

The piano's keys represent the diverse rhythms of our lives and the spirits guiding us. Often, we resist what our true selves are urging us to embrace.

We often believe we know best because we inhabit our own bodies and navigate through life based on our thoughts. This ingrained mindset makes it challenging to step back and gain an objective view of ourselves.

When one key is struck repetitively and loudly, it creates discord, much like when someone is disconnected from their true self, resulting in erratic movements akin to a single, out-of-tune key being played over and over. Without the awareness of being out of sync, resistance to change becomes stronger, as our identity is all we know.

If we could give sound to those disjointed movements, it would resemble someone forcefully hitting a key without any musical sense. However, when we tune into our authentic selves and navigate life with purpose, understanding, and intention, we can inspire others to do the same.

Bringing our mind, body, and spirit into harmony allows us to create a melody that nourishes our well-being. When all these elements unite, they resemble a beautiful orchestra, blending seamlessly to minimize resistance and conflict.

Chapter 2: The Flow of Music and Life

The first video, "Piano Lessons for Beginners: Part 1 - Getting Started!" introduces simple chords, helping novices find their initial rhythm in music.

As the keys harmonize with one another, they create soothing melodies instead of chaotic noise. This is in stark contrast to someone inexperienced at the piano, who may pound on the keys without understanding how they interact with their environment.

I believe that achieving this level of synchronization within ourselves diminishes conflicts with others. It shifts the focus from competition to how we can harmonize our unique rhythms.

The clarity of this idea emerges when we resist the urge to blame others and instead prioritize being the most non-judgmental version of ourselves. By doing so, we might encourage others to introspect and realign their unique elements that are out of balance, particularly those thoughts and behaviors causing persistent internal strife.

This brings me to a poignant conclusion encapsulated in the serenity prayer:

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Change the things I can. And the wisdom to know the difference."

The second video, "7 Days To Learning Piano (Beginner Lesson)," offers a structured approach for beginners to develop their skills over a week, reinforcing the notion of progress through practice.

Thank you for taking the time to read this reflection.