"Tickling the Ivory"

“Tickling the Ivory” runs like blood through my family. Great grandma, grandma, mom, and I. It's a legacy I hope is never left behind. “Hard work, persistence, it will one day all pay off,” I heard umpteen times. I always wanted to quit, yet they always pushed me to try. Finger exercises, notes, and chords.... I felt like it couldn't be pounded into my brain anymore. I fought it and fought it, but one day it clicked. I actually liked doing it. Was it as easy as singing, oh heavens no, and it brought on the nerves like a heavy falling snow. But... it was good for me, it made me step out of my comfort zone. Do I do it all right? Oh goodness no! I don't think I've yet to play a piece perfectly day or night. However, it shows I'm human; it gives character to the piece, and it humbles the pride in me that strives for perfection to a tee. Music has become my destresser, my solace, my peace. When I need a break, it's to the piano, and my problems momentarily cease. It's a “life skill” everyone said, and I'd now certainly have to agree. It's allowed me to be in a band and play offertories when in need. It's built my confidence and humbled my pride, and I hope to continue the legacy. I want it to survive.