Family gatherings have a unique way of sparking unexpected inspirations. For me, it was a simple request from my grandfather during a recent visit that set off a chain of thoughts about learning and personal growth. As we sat around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter, my grandfather’s words resonated deeply with me.
My grandfather, a man of wisdom and charm, has a way of making even the simplest moments feel special. His request that evening was no different. He turned to me and said, “Oh, Jannellyyyy, you know what would make my night? If you played a song for us on the piano.” His eyes twinkled as he nodded towards the upright piano in the corner of the room. It was a moment that would stay with me long after the evening ended.
The piano: A forgotten passion
In theory, the idea was perfect. The thought of sitting down at the piano and playing a song for my family was undeniably charming. However, the reality was a bit different. Despite taking piano lessons as a child, I hadn’t played in 22 years. My repertoire now consisted of only “Chopsticks” and the intro to a Little Mermaid song. “Sorry, Grandpa, but no,” I told him. “Maybe another time!”
As the evening progressed, I found myself thinking about that old keyboard tucked away in the attic. The idea of learning to play songs like “Linus and Lucy” or Coldplay’s “Fix You” sounded exciting. It was a chance to step out of my day-to-day routine and immerse myself in something purely for the joy of it. The thought of playing a feel-good tune at our next family gathering, with my grandfather singing along, filled me with a sense of anticipation.
The thrill of learning something new
It’s been years since I last learned a skill just for fun. This fall, I’ve set myself a few goals to reignite that sense of curiosity and excitement. Along with the piano, I want to learn how to Dutch braid my older daughter’s hair and how to make chocolate mousse. There’s something incredibly liberating about feeling like a student again, trying something low-stakes that has nothing to do with work or parenting.
The process of learning something new is not just about the end result; it’s about the journey. It’s about the moments of frustration and the small victories that come with practice. It’s about rediscovering the joy of personal growth and the satisfaction of mastering something that once seemed impossible. For me, that journey started with a simple request from my grandfather and a forgotten passion for the piano.
What about you? Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn? Or perhaps you’re currently in the midst of a new learning adventure. Whatever it may be, the thrill of learning something new is an experience that everyone should embrace. So, go ahead, take that first step. You never know where it might lead you.
P.S. Learning to swim at age 37, and the hardest tongue twister.
