Tonight I write a love letter to my family built by time and music.  I get that social media is just that – social media.  But sometimes it provides blessings through your words and today I was definitely blessed by those words.

I was struck by just how diverse this family is, how they are literally scattered around the country and around the world.  Twenty eight states were represented, from New York to California and everything in between, and the countries of Korea and Latvia where two former student teachers are working.  Somehow or another, we are connected by music, whether we have performed or studied music together,  or you are one of my colleagues, students, teachers or precious family.

I was also made very aware that my successes are not my own but a culmination of those  relationships and some hard work.  I’m a true believer in it’s not what you know but who you know.  I’m grateful for the things you have taught me, have shared with me and have brought to my attention.  I’m grateful for the opportunity to watch and learn from you.  I’ve seen your work ethic, your kindness to others, how you collaborate with one another, and your belief in servanthood and I’m working to emulate those things.

Encouragement is powerful and without the encouragement of family and friends I would never be where I am nor have the experiences I have had.  Maybe in the scheme of things, what I do isn’t all that important, but it has provided satisfaction and a sense of purpose.  Many years ago, I read The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren and I found myself overwhelmed by the idea of finding my purpose.  What was I meant to do in this life?  How could I make a real difference in the my life and the lives of others?  I’ve discovered this does not happen overnight.  Nothing that is worth anything does.  But with patience, perseverance, and encouragement from your family, by blood or otherwise, your purpose can be found.

Making yourself accountable to others helps in this journey to finding your purpose through setting goals.  Sharing your dreams and plans with great colleagues, friends and family can open those doors you’ve been dreaming about because again, it’s not always what you know, but who you know.  Surrounding yourself with people who also dream and set goals, those who understand the process and are willing to help you through it is essential to helping you achieve your dreams.  And at the root of it all, God, who knows the plans he has for me.  I’m learning to trust in Him for my purpose.

And so I am achieving my dreams, living new experiences and learning new things, even at my age, and it continues to give my life purpose.  Words are important to me and I can’t thank you enough for your words of kindness and encouragement today. Family can mean many things and I count you all as my family.