The beginning of the rest of my life....

That sounds very dramatic doesn't it?  But I have learned some important life lessons over the past two months. Here they are. Some are serious. Some are for fun. Some are common sense. Some are things I knew but that I forgot and needed to remember. 

1. I do not like practicing

2. When your life is out of balance nothing works properly

3. The fact someone else is talented does not diminish your own abilities

4. You can, if fact, do anything for 10 minutes

5. No matter how secure you are, the second you listen to negative self-talk is the instant you feel like the chubby girl in ballet class

6. If you can't enjoy the moment, there is not point. 

7. You never know who is praying for you

8. I like the violin

My list could go on. 

For those who haven't gotten the full report of my audition--It is over. Yeah!!! Let the celebration begin.  That is by far the hardest thing I have ever done and I don't know why anyone would willing repeat the experience if they didn't need a job. Mentally, musically, and emotionally I feel stretched.  I don't know that I was impressive in any way to the judges (unless I left a lasting scar on their musically attuned ears), but I learned a lot. 

The main impression I had as I contemplated bailing moments before being called on stage is that this could not be a positive "faith promoting" experience if I didn't go through with it.  At church we talked about Zion's Camp and the way the Lord called the brethren to serve. They did hard things and were mentally prepared to go into battle at the Lord's command. The time had come. And then the Lord told them their faith was enough.  They had proven themselves by their obedience and their willingness. My experience is insignificant in comparison to their call to serve in the Lord's army. I made a decision based on what I felt I was supposed to do. I thought I knew what was required. I did my best. And now I know that there is a plan even though I don't know the plan and all will be well.  

Now it's time to get to my list "Things I want to do if I don't get the job."  In the words of my roommate Amy, I'm excited for my future.