Pausing With God

  Shhhhhhh, listen; as another school year ends, can you hear the parents, teachers and faculty yelling ‘We did it!’ You all have been through the ringer. From transitioning to instructing kids from their homes to returning back to the classrooms. Yes, You did it! Before we let you shut down the building for a few months, we are trying to make one last visit. I have three grands who bring such joy to my heart. Today was grand number two’s turn. The night before, her mom shared that she should expect a surprise at lunch time. My inquisitive grand tried to guess, but her mom wasn’t given in no matter how many times she blurted out the wrong response. On the way to grand number two’s school, I daydreamed about what kind of facial expression we were going to see displayed on her face. I pulled in the school parking lot, got out the car and hurriedly walked in the front door and checked in. After I was directed to lunch area, I sat down. I thought hmm, maybe I’ll record her expression, ...

The piano is a widely recognized instrument for its beautiful sound.  Each key has a different range, from soft to strong.  One would think the greater the force, the louder the sound. Actually, it’s not the applied pressure that determines the volume, but the speed with which the keys are depressed.  In addition, relaxed hands tend to give you more control and produce a better sound. Although some are gifted and can play the piano without acquiring any lessons, there are those; like myself who are challenged.  During my first lesson, I was amazed to find that when you sit down to a piano; there is a correct posture for your hands, arms and feet. I have dispelled the myth that you cannot study this instrument while sitting on the couch.