Have you ever been pressured into an activity and ended up loving it? Or have you ever judged a book by it’s cover and to your surprise, you went ahead and read its sequel? Through my involvement in music classes, one of the greatest lessons I have learned is to never shy away from an opportunity even if it didn’t initially appeal to me.

It all started with me moving schools. In addition to the core fundamental classes, my new school mandated students to choose from common elective classes, such as band and Japanese, as well. With the chance to hit, bang, and blow on loud instruments, one would think band would appeal to any middle-schooler. But I wasn't any middle-schooler. I was born with partial blindness and cerebral palsy that affected my left arm and leg. From the moment I saw band on my schedule, I was determined to sidestep taking the course That never happened.

Going into the first band rehearsal, I remember being very uptight, concerned, and carrying a “this is not for me” attitude. With limited left hand function, I was convinced there would be no instrument suitable to play and primarily support with one hand. Sure, there was the triangle, but triangle player don't get solos (Geico commercial aside). My teacher, unlike me, was determined to solve the challenge. From the trombone to the sousaphone, my right hand would shake when I held up an instrument too long, and I had difficulty standing upright under the weight of brass. So in result, when I attempted to pick up these bulky instruments, I would immediately drop them. I would constantly be sent back to the triangle, but I was too stubborn to accept that suggestion. I had the tiniest bit of hope that there was an instrument out there waiting for me. It was the Trumpet.

When I was first given the trumpet, I was both eager and skeptical to try it. However, to my surprise the instrument could be played and held with one hand and it wasn’t too heavy to carry. Thrilled to get off the triangle and finally find my “match,” I was anxious to learn the instrument. To my surprise, my attitude started to change, becoming more positive. By the end of the year, I decided to stick with the instrument and began to take private lessons to further my technique. Despite my initial apprehension, I had given band class a try, and inadvertently stumbled on my passion.

Eight years later I find myself not only pursuing a music degree, but devoting my time and sacrificing my sleep to an instrument that I wouldn’t have picked on my own terms. I look back at this story and am truly blessed by the obstacles that were thrown at me to be where I am today. Without being pressured into band, I believe I would have no desire or knowledge of my musical talent. Playing trumpet has given me so much joy and has taught me a variety lessons, such as the importance of listening to others. My musical interests have also opened the door to volunteer opportunities, such as playing for a local Lutheran congregation every Sunday. I am thankful that I have developed a passion that not only has given me a new purpose in life, but most importantly has the ability to make other people happy. As I participate in music ensembles and classes in college, I am constantly reminded of God’s goodness and can confirm Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” to be true.

Although you may not be interested or as passionate in music as I am by making it a college and career choice, I hope that you find that same joy and passion in whatever path you take. When you take a required class or a random elective to satisfy your course load, have an open mind. After all, that class could lead you to find great success, passion, and lifelong fulfillment.