I Survived a Year!

I began music school in school year 2014-2015 in St. Scholastica's College, Manila, taking up Music Education major in Cello. I learned it wasn't at all that easy. I thought music school was all about playing and nothing more. But there was music theory to begin with. And then solfege (sight singing) and dictation (ear training-where you'll have to write the notes played on the piano, melodically and rhythmically). It wasn't easy boggling with the demands of my minor and major subjects as well. To top it all off, I have a practice time to think about because everyday practice with my instrument is important. What a challenge!

I guess I underestimated music school. O.o It wasn't all about jamming... although, that part's a given but music is more than that. I learned the deeper aspects of music: its physical structures, its history, and all others. But praise God, I was able to get by. My grades weren't bad either! I appreciated music and came to see it in another light.

In music school, I was exposed to classical and musical concerts as it was part of the requirements. I learned that time was a very, very important thing. Now, I thank my mom for bombarding me with a lot of activities when I was young because then I learned the basics of time management and was able to apply it in music school. I could say that I myself am a time-conscious person so that's an added bonus. Also, I learned that music school is also expensive. HAHAHAH! Very! From the tuition fees to the instrument maintenance.

I saw how my schoolmates worked hard for sideline jobs to get by and to continue music school. Some of them are not supported by their parents anymore so they try to make a living while meeting the demands of music school. And I see the fruits of their labor at the end of every year... well, at the end of THIS year, at least. Haha! This was just my first year.

I have been through pressure and struggles through the year. And I think it's worth it. My experiences were amazing. Not only did I grow in love with music but also in my sprititual life with the awesome friends I am surrounded with. Praise God!


Finals are over. The school year is over. 10 more semesters to go. Godwilling, I will be able to finish music school. I survived a year and I thought I wouldn't be able to. By the grace of God, I'll make it. ♡

HELLO SUMMER VACATION!~

2015

          I can't think of a better post title. 2015 says it all. We say, "New year, new life, new goals." And we look forward to the day that we accomplish our goals.
         Three years ago, when I was in my Sophomore year in high school, my History teacher asked the class, "What are your new year's resolutions this year?" A wave of answers like 'better grades', 'no lates', 'going home early', and 'diet!' filled the classroom.
          My teacher smiled and said, "I have never really accomplished any new year's resolution that I promised to myself before. Do you know what I would want to do this year?" The class went silent.
         "Matthew 22:37 says, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' What if this year we'll take that to heart?"
         The class was silent once more... waiting. She continued on saying, "Wouldn't it be different and refreshing to have that kind of goal this year? It's easier said than done."
         I took the guts to ask, "Why, Miss?"
         She smiled and said, " I believe loving the Lord with all my heart, soul, and mind this year would be the most fulfilling accomplishment ever. However, it's not only that. When we do so (love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength) I believe, everything [our goals and plans] will follow. Because when we love the Lord, we would want to obey Him, we would want to please Him and trust in His plans for us."
          She was the first teacher to ever tell us (the class) something like that. I learned from the things that she said. And it made sense. It made me think about it. It was such an encouragement to me that every year since then, it would be my new year's resolution. I hope one day, I will able to do just that by the grace of God.
          Drama time: as I thought about my teacher's words, I looked out at the window. She began discussing the lessons. I can't help contemplate about my new year's resolution idea that I learned from her. I'll do that. And I'll start this year.
          The verse echoed in my mind, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind."

How's that for a New Year's Resolution? :)