Learning Something New

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All around the world today, homeschooled children are learning. Some are reviewing things they already know. Some are learning something brand new. Last Monday Ray and I began learning something new. Ray had his first guitar lesson, and I had my first mandolin lesson.

On our way for the first day . . .

I have had a mandolin for two years. For two years I have had the intention of taking lessons, but I kept pushing the idea forward.

I played flute from fourth grade through high school, but I’ve hardly touched a flute since then. I began to play in fourth grade after our school music teacher gathered fourth grade students into the gym and asked us if we were interested in learning to play an instrument. I chose flute. My parents rented a flute for me from Hewgley’s Music Store in Nashville and eventually bought it for me. Playing flute became an important part of my growing up.

Just a few weeks ago, I asked Ray why he didn’t decide to do an instrument when his music teacher offered that opportunity when he was in school. “It is one of my life regrets,” he said. His answer made me sad for him. I encouraged him to fulfill that longing now and asked him what instrument he wanted to play. He thought about piano and guitar, but soon chose guitar so that he can play music with our grandchildren. We decided to see if we could get lessons at the same time.

Jimmy Bilbrey is an excellent bluegrass and gospel musician and teacher in our area. He is an inspiring teacher. He had two—and only two—back-to-back slots available. We are excited to be his students on Monday mornings.

Learning something new can be quite intimidating, but we are blessed to have Jimmy as our teacher. He doesn’t make us feel that our questions are silly. He is fun to be around. He tells stories. He praises our efforts. He is reassuring. He explains carefully. He is patient. He encourages.

It must be challenging—and even frightening—sometimes to be a little kid and have so many new things to learn all at once. I am thankful that your children can do that at their own pace.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;
I will advise you with My eye upon you.
Do not be like the horse or like the mule, which have no understanding,
Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check,
Otherwise they will not come near to you.
The sorrows of the wicked are many,
But the one who trusts in the Lord, goodness will surround him.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones;
And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.
Psalm 32:8-11

 

 

 

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2 Comments

  1. This has made my day!! I am so thrilled you and your husband are taking music lessons. That is also on my list of want-tos. I played piano as child and teen but didn’t take it as seriously as I wish I would’ve. I,too, am wanting to learn something this year….how to swim. It’s scary isn’t it? Our 3 homeschooled girls were taught to swim at very early ages and we have a pool that has seen many, many hours of enjoyment. I always wanted to be the mom who jumped in as well but…fear. You’ve inspired me to really work at making my wish come true. Thank you.

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