While I can’t believe that a month went by since I recorded this video, I can’t forget what it meant to me on a couple of levels. This video was something I recorded for my family because they were out of town and I was just so excited to share my new accomplishment with them.

I was well into the day and not feeling great. I don’t remember now what exactly was weighing me down. But, I’m familiar enough with “the usuals” that I probably felt tired, inadequate and depending on how long I hung on to those two feelings, a swirl of other negative compadres probably joined the party.

I needed to reset and sort things out. I didn’t go to the gym, though I love a good workout. I didn’t find a place in nature, though not much is better for me, and I didn’t go to the fridge – I think I would have just stared. I went to my favorite personal spot in the house. A pillow and my bed. The pillow is on the floor and the bed is just the perfect height for elbows.

After praying things through I felt so much better. The words to the song “Glory, Glory” started going through my head and I sat down to see if I could possibly play it out on the guitar. This was my first shot at playing something without following along to chords or tabs. It was so satisfying that I could play and sing what I was feeling. And that feeling is what I want everyone to feel, better, so much better!

I have continued to pick up the guitar at least once, hopefully 2-3 times a day for just a few minutes each time. It can feel like I’m not making much progress but then suddenly I can do something I didn’t know I could do. My fingers are getting stronger and more agile and something impossible like strumming a pattern while singing along is something that’s worked a couple of times! I took this picture this morning because I thought it was so awesome at illustrating that the principle of small and simple works!

We went on a family campout and for the first time, I was one of the ones sitting around the campfire playing the guitar. I loved it. I am so grateful I don’t have to be amazing at it to find joy in playing. I am also finding joy looking forward to being able to play and express myself better.

And finally, this is helping me with my goal of recording an Easter album. Being able to practice and sing along to the guitar is a dream come true. I have always wanted to be able to accompany myself. I always assumed it would be with the piano. I have tried learning piano several times but without it sticking. Maybe it’s the portability of the guitar that is helping me stay with it. I love singing and expressing my soul through music. Being able to play along feels like an extension of that.

Thanks for joining me on my journey. Putting this out there is an effort to cheer you on your journey too. Let’s do this!

Have a great week! – Jessica

I try to keep it as real as possible, going for only one impromptu recording unless something unusual happens like. . . a sneeze, perhaps, or an extra long interlude or . . . something.