Welcoming a New Year

December 31, 2008

Well, it's time. Can you believe it? 2008 can finally be written in the history books and we can move forward into 2009. I would like to take some time away from music for a moment and ask you to take a look back at this year and find ways that you can make the next better.

Throughout the past year we have experienced so much as a nation and even more as an individual. Regardless of where you live or of what economic status you may have, make sure that your New Year's resolution is about the most important thing in the world...you. Without fixing you, how can we be expected to do greater good to in other places? Whatever it is that you decide you want to do for your resolution, remember one simple thing. It is you who makes it happen. Let's put our grand plans into reality. Let's work hard every day to be in better shape, to live healthier and longer, to become better individuals. Let's read more. Let's sit with our families more often and call, not only our mothers, but also call our in-laws to see how they're doing. Let 2009 be the year that we put things into perspective. Let this be the year that we "cut the crap" and stand tall and strong. The only way we can be useful to others is if only we have a strong self. The best marriages are made of those who grow strong individually and support each other in their growth.

Let 2009 be the year where, regardless of political affiliation, we say "yes we can". Or, be like Sherman Klump (The Nutty Professor remake with Eddie Murphy) and shout "yes I can". For you young musicians out there, let this be the time where you finally stop blaming the instrument and start learning how to practice. That's a great learning tool right there, learning how to practice. One day soon I'll write about that topic. I digress. Let this be the time where we wake up. Where we say enough is enough...that this is MY life. This is how I want my life to be. This is the world that I want to live in and this is the change I want to make. Set goals for yourself. Challenge yourself to be better.

Some of you reading this may remark on how ideallistic and unrealistic these thoughts are, but don't get caught up in sitting back and watching life pass you by. The world desperately needs individuals who are willing to act and make the world a better place. This is only not possible if you do nothing.

Will it be easy? Not always.

Will there be set backs? Maybe.

Will you stumble along the way? Most likely.

But never give up on making your life better. Never believe that you are not capable of greater things. You can lose that weight, you can be a better parent, you can be a better partner, you can work harder and more efficiently. You can do that and so much more. Realize that you are awesome and that you are capable of wonderful things. What's the trick? Make the decision. You, make it happen.

Our world needs more people like you. Be the difference.

I'll see you next year. Until then, keep on practicing and working hard...you will not regret it. During the next blog I'll write about the second half of the Marian Wind Ensemble season and the great literature we have lined up for you.

Have a wonderul and SAFE New Year!