I was eight years old when my mother stretched her budget to make sure I had a piano so that I could learn to play.
I did learn, too, but like most kids, I really didn't appreciate the gift I was given.
I enjoyed the piano, but I tensed up terribly and couldn't play very well when it came to recitals.
I was absolutely terrified.
My fingers stiffened up.
My body was rigid.
I played without emotion.
My poor mother, she worked hard to be able to afford that piano.
I don't know how she did it.
I really don't.
However, she just smiled when I froze and assured me that all was well.
Talk about unconditional love!
She was an amazing woman!
Because of her, I developed strength that would carry me through some very hard years.
Because of her, I never forgot who I was and that I was so special.
Because of her, when things got tough,
I learned to turn to God because of the faith that she instilled in me at an early age.
Because of her, I am the person I am today.
Because of her, I learned that I am worthy of love and that I am loved.
So much happened because of her.
Today, this piano leaves my home.
I'm giving it to my church.
I'm happy with that.
I think she would be happy with that development, too.
This piano will take with it many memories of children who plunked on it, but refused to practice their piano.
This piano will take with it the places we've lived.
This piano will take with it a love of music.
This piano will take with it a love of art.
This piano will take with it memories of fun!
I am so happy that there is so much happiness associated with this piano.
Now, it will have a new history.
I'm glad about that.
It's only a small part of my life, but it is an important part of my life.
Change happens.
Inevitable.
I'm happy.
