I sit with black tea in hand (milk and honey of course), and I reflect on this year. I peruse the photos of our trips, reminiscing of the not so distant past. I can count many blessings, and that makes my heart happy. There are no ups without downs, and these experiences continue to shape the decisions I make, the person I am, the harpist I want to be.
I have learned to define my studio, what it means to be a student in my studio.
I have learned to trust my instinct because it’s always looking out for me.
I have deepened my understanding of practice and music and it’s made me a better player.
Most importantly, I have learned that adaptation and an eagerness to learn will broaden my mind, my heart, and surprise me.
I begin every day with my affirmations and a statement of gratitude. Gratefulness begets happiness, not the other way around. This acts as a button to SET my day right from the beginning. It aligns me and focuses me so that I can keep that open mind while breathing through each task with ease and comfort.
As we head in to 2020, I pray that I can make a similar reflection, learn something new, grow, experience, and allow myself the freedom to change.
I pray that we as a collective can remind ourselves that we are one race: the human race. I pray for peace, comfort, ease of pain, and love. I pray for these things to make an appearance in your life as you continue your journey.
I am grateful.
I am grateful for many things, including the moments of joy I get to experience from my students, and my subscribers: YOU.
Share in my joy, would you? What are you grateful for? What do you hope for in the new year?
I’ve arranged Auld Lang Syne (free for subscribers up to this date), and available for purchase on my website.
Happy New Year!
-Elizabeth