My little niece, Daniela, is learning how to play the cello. We are both enchanted by the instrument–this large piece of empty wood that turns vibration into melody and song. It takes skills to lightly embrace the instrument and delicately play its best sound.
As I watch Daniela trying to make music, I see she is trying over and over again. Her brow is focused and shows her concentration and I admire especially that she is not frustrated by the small moments of failure. She is trying hard, but not overwhelmed by the task. After a while, the right notes come to life and she looks at me with a big smile, her eyes big with pride.
I wonder if we can learn from Daniela, if we can apply patience, focus and a light touch to the way we play our lives. Are we trying too hard? Are we embracing the challenge to hone our our instrument and transforming the hollowness into vibration without being overwhelmed by the task? Can you listen carefully for music without turning your practice into harsh criticism?
We all have been created to play our song, to vibrate with light touch and music. Are you allowing yourself to become an instrument for others? Are you letting yourself to become a vessel for the music of your being?
Meditate on these questions:
- In your life, do you give yourself time to practice without attachment to results?
- Do you give yourself permission to fail and try again?
- Can you be focused without turning on the harsh self-criticism?
- After that, do you know how to play your song, how to become an instrument for others? Let your music begin.
Peace,
Juan