Dear musical instrument,
It's unfortunate to think that I haven't picked you up in a few months. I just don't seem to have the love for you as I used to. You have been by my side and always something I have been able to go to over the past 15 years. A part of me is sad that we don't have the bond that we used to. But I would not be where I am today if it was not for you, and I just wanted to say thank you for that.
You taught me responsibility. Man, you were expensive. If I lost you I would not hear the end of it. I made sure you were with me at all times. Well, until I got to high school. I'm sorry to say it, but it would be social suicide if I was caught dead carrying you around. I had to practice at least an hour everyday in order not to make a fool out of myself in front during my lesson or during band and orchestra rehearsal. If I didn't practice, I didn't feel bad about it until I got to rehearsal. Now I look back on it and realize that you helped me shape my life responsibilities. Practice every day, do homework every day, go to volleyball practice every day, write every day.
You taught me to be humble. Remember that time when I had that solo in front of like 500 people? Yeah. Nailed it. But I didn't tell anyone. All I got was a smile of approval from the conductor. When I got a compliment from one of my friends, I blew it off when I actually really wanted to say, "I know right! It was amazing and I nailed it!" I didn't say that because you told me to be the best you can be, but don't flaunt it. As much as I wanted to tell the whole world, I didn't. I didn't want to make other people uncomfortable for me believing in myself, so I stayed humble because of you.
You took me to parts of the world that I never dreamed of going. Our trips to France and California would have never happened if it wasn't for you. We saw the Eiffel Tower sparkle every hour, took a boat on the Seine, went to the south of France to markets, hiked a mountain to one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. We went up and down the state of California, spent a day at Universal, played a concert on a Navy ship, walked the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Nevertheless, this would never have happened if we weren't placed in the the highest band as a freshman. I would have never met the wonderful upperclassmen I did, who inspired me to be as welcoming to an awkward, little freshman like me.
I just wanted to say thank you because I don't say it enough. Thanks for doing everything you have for me.
Love,
Jackie
