My parents have taught me countless lessons over the course of my eighteen years on this planet. Some of these lessons have been more difficult to grasp than others, and they range from helpful tips such as "don't eat the yellow snow" to more serious matters such as the importance of hard work. All of these lessons they have passed on, either intentional or unintentional, have shaped me into the unique person I am today.
One of the most valuable lessons my parents passed on is something they didn't intentionally teach me: my love for music. Music has always been a constant fixture in my life, and I have my parents to thank for that. From sitting in the backseat of the family van listening to Elvis Presley's greatest hits to hearing stories of my dad practicing his air-guitar skills with his buddies when he was my age, I have always had a connection with music.
My parents didn't just instill a love for music in my heart, they gave me an ear for good music by exposing me to their favorite artists when I was young. I grew up listening to Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, and The Beatles in my mom's car. I remember how I used to wish she would turn off What'd I Say by Ray Charles and turn on Radio Disney. When I was young, I didn't realize just how classic this music was. Looking back, I'm grateful I was exposed to it at a young age because it gives me an appreciation that I didn't even realize. On the other hand, my dad's favorite band of all time is The Rolling Stones. I didn't hear a lot of their music growing up, considering the content, but I was always aware that they are the greatest rock band of all time. Another band that both of my parents enjoy is Fleetwood Mac. I have memories of them going to their concerts and listening to the album Rumors on the Bose speaker in our kitchen.
Being exposed to all of this classic music made me more of an open person when it comes to music. I am able to appreciate the classics and explore the new artists and bands surfacing. I will always be grateful to my parents for passing on the love of music that lies in my heart.
