“The wound is the place where the light gets in” (Rumi)
This morning I received another email from Suleika Jaouad, with a prompt written by breathing coach, Taylor Somerville. He quoted Rumi (see quote above), and encouraged us to reflect on our biggest challenge of last year, and how did/could that wound let the light in. Where should I begin?
Toffee and I are heading out for a very early morning walk, and I will complete this when we return.
There were so many challenges, both deep down inside my heart and soul, as well as the “surface” challenges. Since I seldom speak out loud about things deep inside (mostly because I have not been able to form those thoughts into words) I will write about some of the tangible challenges.
Obviously, my work as a musician and music teacher was immediately affected by the pandemic and resulting shut-down. My performance and work as a collaborative pianist ended abruptly, and after a couple of weeks of thinking, listening and planning I resumed teaching online. But, what was very important to me, was the continuation of my children’s choir. Nobody knew how long the online experience was going to last, and we still have no idea when we will be together in the same room again, but this past year of online choir rehearsals has taught me a lot about resilience.
I knew that some children would not do well with zoom rehearsals, but the real important thing was to first get the parents on board. The parents who were neither afraid nor suspicious of online rehearsing were able to encourage their children. We lost a few who are waiting for the start of in-person rehearsals, and we have gained some who otherwise, because of health issues and the fear of catching Covid-19 didn’t allow them to join other in-person children’s choirs. And we have had fun, being patient with each other, learning along with each other.
The children have completed two audio recording projects this past year.
After countless webinars, online round tables sessions, training videos and much trial and error I have seen not only my skills as a singer and leader improve, but I have seen the children engaged and enthusiastic about learning and about seeing each other every week.
This was a challenge, and I do spend a lot of time preparing each week, but every minute is worth it see joy on the faces of the children, and to know that I am helping each child cope with the pandemic and all the anxiety, fear and learning that it brings.
Reflections 