Dear Ricardo: We Need Help to Realize Dreams.

Inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s letters in Dear Theo, I write letters to my future self about everyday life and events.

January 21, 2019

Dear Ricardo,

It’s winter now. It’s fifteen degrees and half a foot of snow is on the ground. I’m enjoying it more than I thought I would. The weather encourages me to stay inside; it limits my options of things to do and, for me, that can be a good thing. Sometimes I struggle to make a decision when too many choices are available…as you are quite aware.

Anyways, something interesting happened. I didn’t want to be on my phone, iPad, or laptop but I didn’t want to read a book either. I looked around my room and stared at my guitar. Half a year probably passed since the last time I played. I’ve gotten so used to it being a decoration. I picked it up from its cobwebbed stand, brushed off the dust, and tuned it. Then I strummed until my fingers hurt too much and came to a realization: this was a moment I dreamed of years ago.

I’ve always wanted to the ability to relax by playing a musical instrument. Several years ago while working as an Uber driver, a passenger told me about taking guitar lessons at the Old Town School of Folk Music. My stomach dropped because it reminded me that I bought a guitar from someone on Craigslist, convincing myself I’d teach myself how to play. It sat untouched for over a year. Clearly my strategy wasn’t working. I needed help.

I looked into lessons and they were cheaper than I thought—still a commitment for this broke boy, but I signed up. Remember what a rush that was, Ricardo? It’s tough to start at the beginning, but at least I would start on my goal!

After four separate rounds of eight classes, I now know how to play basic guitar. My goal wasn’t to join a band or record music or perform publicly—it was to learn a skill that would allow me to spend my time differently. Aside from learning, the people at Old Town School of Folk Music turned out to be some of the friendliest and most supportive I’ve met in the city. I looked forward to class every week and never missed one.

I emailed my former teacher to thank him. He helped me realize one of my dreams and I appreciate that.

Within 24 hours, he wrote back to me. Goes to show that it’s nice to be appreciated every now and then, hey?

Anyways, I have stuff to do—maybe I’ll practice guitar.  😉

Do you journal? What have you found to be the most effective for you?