Important Life Lessons Thanks To The Uke

I'm 41 years old and have been a stay-at-home parent for 16 years with my 4 kids. I grew up in Southeast Los Angeles and my elementary school didn't have enough recorders for all students so I never had a chance to learn music. (This pattern of insufficient instruments continued into Jr. High and High School).

I always dreamed of carrying an instrument case home, memories of long hours spent practising in childhood imprinted in my mind. Alas, it wasn't meant to be.

Years later, I made sure to sign my kids up for early music lessons. My oldest played the trombone in his Jr. High Jazz Band, my second son the trumpet and my youngest son the violin. I was thrilled to see them enjoying music. At a Jazz Festival for my son, I saw Ukuleles for sale and assumed they were just too expensive for me. I reasoned with myself that the music ship had sailed.

Just a few weeks later, my husband surprised me with my 1st Ukulele for Mother's Day. It was a steep learning curve for me, not knowing a thing about music and dealing with low muscle tone in my hands. However, 2 years later, I am still thrilled with the experience of learning to play. I have learned very important life lessons thanks to the Uke. Lessons like:

• Be patient with yourself because mistakes help you learn.
• When stressed out, strumming the uke brings a sense of calm that rivals any meditation exercise.
• It is never too late for your dreams

My ultimate goal is to play flamenco ukulele and I dare say I am well on my way. The uke just brings joy to my life!

Sincerely,

Maty C
Los Angeles, California, USA

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