My history is riddled with piano performances and recital pieces that were played by the seat of my pants. No, really its true. As a child I loved to be at the piano. I played and played and played. I’m sure my family would vouch for me on that count. But, that was just what it was. playing.
I loved to play, but I did not always choose to practice the way I was instructed. My teachers would tell me, “Practice this portion slowly, and repetitively and you’ll get it. Your performance will be stellar, if you do what I suggest.” That’s what they would say, or something similar. But, my ears couldn’t hear most of the time. I loved to play, but I had a ‘wild hare’ about me. I liked to play fast.
And so, I played pieces, often, just on the edge of disaster. almost under control. almost.
By the time I finished my senior recital in college, I had sort of learned the principle. And, even then one of my pieces could have been better, if I had put into practice what my instructors had been telling me my whole life.
My daughter is now the one on the bench, having piano lessons with a wonderful teacher, and getting unsolicited advice from me on the side. She’s preparing for a piano competition this coming Saturday. And there’s one piece, Toccatina, that requires a very quick pace. Oh how she loves to fly over the keys. But, there are hitches. When I mention practicing slowly, she plays even faster.
Now, I’ve been there and I know what her outcome might be. I wish she would practice more carefully. But, she can’t hear me. Regrettably, she is taking after her mama.
Turns out the piano bench, wasn’t the only part of life where I was living fast-paced, ignoring instruction. Often I find myself in situations, charging down paths unknown, earplugs inserted, rather than hearing. If only I wasn’t so hard headed, and in such a hurry to do things my way, then it wouldn’t be so difficult! Even today, I’m making a u-turn, realizing maybe I should have listened… Oh, Lord, please help me!
There is a softer, kinder cure for inexperience : It is listening to wisdom.
Here is what Proverbs 2:1-9 says. Words that are true for ALL of life:
My son, if you receive my words,
And treasure my commands within you,
2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom,
And apply your heart to understanding;
3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment,
And lift up your voice for understanding,
4 If you seek her as silver,
And search for her as for hidden treasures;
5 Then you will understand the fear of the Lord,
And find the knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
He is a shield to those who walk uprightly;
8 He guards the paths of justice,
And preserves the way of His saints.
9 Then you will understand righteousness and justice,
Equity and every good path.
This is such good news for my heart. All wisdom, for every part of life, comes from God and He gives willingly, even liberally! Sometimes it comes from the mouths of people who have already heard His voice, and have helpful knowledge to offer. Sometimes it is prophetic, straight from His word. But, I have to seek it and acknowledge it with my whole heart and put it into action. Then maybe my daughter would have a good example to follow… for practicing the Toccatina and for living her life.
Heavenly Father, Help me to change. I want to follow after you and your wisdom. Remove whatever is keeping me from hearing You and your instruction. Let me apply your words to my heart first and let that bring new actions. amen.
daily portion 