The Life of Your Dreams

Are you living the life of your dreams? …Still on your way there?

Or, like most of us, are you living a life different from the one you dreamed of?

As a child, I dreamed of being a classical concert pianist – travelling the globe, playing recitals, and performing the great piano concertos with the finest orchestras and conductors.

After not winning a major international competition, I floundered; I had no direction. I had some years of real struggle, both financial and spiritual.

I applied for a position on the music faculty at a university. (You know… tenure… pension… security!!) But when I was informed that I was one of the final four candidates, I withdrew my name from consideration…

I tried to teach private piano lessons… until I started falling asleep during them. I would wake up to see the student staring at me! Okay, I am not cut out to be a teacher at any level.

But during all this time, I continued to practice the piano, even during the periods where I had to spend weeks eating nothing but peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

I finally straightened out my spiritual life; I returned to Jesus. That happened when I started going to church with my Mom, just to help her through her grief after my Dad died. I remember a particular sermon during one of those services, during which the preacher spoke about God not accepting half measures.

That was when it hit me.

“Half measures.”

I cried.

I recommitted.

With my spiritual house in order, I found my way – I believe by God’s direction.

I was invited to become a partner in a recording studio.

I produced my first album of original music.

Now I play concerts of both my own music and classical works. I have been invited to play concerts in China. People from all over the world buy my CD’s, mp3s and sheet music. My music is licensed for TV, commercials and film!

It’s not quite my dream, but because I kept working toward my goal, I was ready for these new opportunities when they came my way, resulting in a wonderful life with much more than I deserve: Spiritual fulfillment, a musically rewarding career and a wonderful marriage to the woman of my dreams.

And I’m still practicing the piano so I’ll be ready just in case the New York Philharmonic calls!

How’s your plan B going?