Thriving as a Youth

Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a youth. What became of it?

Youthfulness marks the beginning of the beauty of life. I guess you’ll agree with me. Vibrance lies in the youthful smile. As strong and adventurous as we are, we begin to navigate the ups and downs of life. Read more on how the youth explore life.

At this stage of life, most of us are searching for purpose in life. Creativity is matchless. So, then we begin to develop interest in a variety of activities that will help us to identify our ultimate purpose.

It’s surprising how, amidst all obstacles and influences, we come across thriving with resilience and perseverance to reach our ultimate goal.

My youth was and is still marked by a desire for multiplicity with one agenda in focus – a call to serve humanity. I found this in music and ministry. But I’ll talk about music for now.

I have loved music since childhood. But, during my mid teen years, I developed a passion for playing the piano (collective usage).

I started studying sheet music and all its basics on my own. While I was studying business in high school, I did my private and personal studies in music theory and keyboard musicianship. I practised playing the keyboard. I continued after school personally and with financial aid from my father for a 1-month private tutorial.

There were so many ups and downs. There were times when I felt stuck in progress. Then, after a while, I’ll begin to progress again, yet I kept thriving. From flopped performances to genius performances, I played the keyboard for various churches, concerts, and ceremonies.

I still remember how I rehearsed one particular hymn for weeks in the room. That was the first song I played for a small youthful audience. But to my dismay, that same hymn which I had practised for weeks, I flopped completely while playing it in public. It was as if I was creating my own tune for the song. I’d forgotten almost everything, well, except the first line. I guess you can relate with such an experience.

Anyway, I continued practising to improve my skills. I still play the keyboard, piano, or organ, whichever piano instrument, now with finesse and creativity, although I’m exploring every day.

Currently, I play the piano and sing. With regards to playing the keyboard, my profession has taken a lot from me. But a skill that stems from intrinsic motivation will not vanquish easily. I still feature at various programs once a while.

And what fuels my intrinsic motivation is a desire to use music therapeutically. 🎶 Here’s more on music therapy.

What’s your story? I’d love to hear your story, too.