My appreciation for music didn't always exist. Yes, I was one of those kids that disliked piano lessons and would find every possible excuse to get out of practicing and I certainly did not enjoy being the "special music" at church on Sunday's.
But music isn't just about reading notes and carrying a tune...it's about finding a connection. A connection to other people, places, and memories. It's about knowing exactly where you were, who you were with, and what you were wearing when Bon Jovi's "You Give Love a Bad Name" blasted on the "boom box" during high school basketball practice.
Music not only creates a connection, but it also elicits an emotion. Some music gets you pumped up, ready for a workout, a long run or even a game. Take for example the song "Thunderstruck". Anyone that knows NDSU sports, understands the excitement when they hear it begin to blare over the loud speakers.
The sentimental side of me melts when I hear "Can't Help Falling In Love". The song is a classic and one that I remember from my wedding day. It reminds me of how lucky I am to have found someone who loves me unconditionally.
And then some songs provide memories that can be bittersweet. Each and everytime I hear "How Great Thou Art" it brings a tear to my eye, remembering how my sister and brother in law sang it so beautifully at my Grandma's funeral.
For every emotion, for every experience, for every aspect of life, there is a piece of music. We may remember a certain place, person, smell, color and so on. As a song progresses we may smile, laugh, cry, giggle or even smirk.
Music has and always will have a special place in my heart and I'm thankful to my parents for enabling me to develop my love of music. So in today's hectic world consumed by high academic standards and demanding sports schedules, I will continue to encourage my kids to embrace music through piano, band, choir, or whatever direction they may choose.
Music is a gift and without it, life would be awfully boring.
