"There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats." ~ Albert Schweitzer

For such a smart guy, he was half right.

My lessons include:

Enjoying this life is good. Music transforms the mundane into magical. Insert earbuds, press play and be transported through time and space. A little jazz and the refuge appears.

Beauty is everywhere: Nature plays tunes as the wind moves a chime or sings through the canyon. The babbling brook and a birds song are worth pausing to be present. The kid on the street corner drumming on buckets leaves me tapping my foot all day.

Excellence requires work: Progressing from Middle School, French Horn fifth chair, up the ranks, requires practice and dedication.

Muscles are throughout the body: Playing the French Horn well requires strong lips. Stairs suck after a heavy leg day at the gym, and your lower face is a mess after many hours of playing a brass instrument.

Cultural heritage is beautiful: Watching the Peruvian dancers during the Fourth of July Parade celebrate their history through music and dance makes my heart swell with pride with them.

I feel emotions: A fantastic musical score can leave my face leaking tears or adrenaline coursing through my veins. I leave ready to hit the heavy bag, convinced I can overcome the odds, just like Rocky.

What lessons are on your list?