Find Yours

I had a big project that called me back to school no less than six days during my Winter break.  Yes, it was unavoidable.  No, I didn't do it alone.  Yes, I dragged my son along.  No, he wasn't the help I spoke of.

A good number of students showed up to help out.  One of them, my top drummer, actually showed up on four different days.  The first two days he occupied himself with the relocation, care and maintenance of the drum equipment.  Like... *all* of the drum equipment.  After that he just... ah... kind of hung out.  He did a little playing, but he also helped out doing other stuff.  I was a bit surprised to see him show up after all the drum stuff had been squared away.

Now, before I get into the next bit, I have to tell you that when I say this kid is my top drummer, I mean he is the *best* drummer I have ever worked with (which, given the talent I've seen over the years, is saying something).  He is also one of the best students I've had.  Period.  He's that magical combination of ability, artistry, humility, loyalty, responsibility, creativity, initiative and leadership.  Seriously, like... if I ever wanted to clone a kid... well, you get the idea.  Given that his skills are far more developed than the majority of the music students at NRHS... I've always been a little worried that he would get bored with the program and quit.  He's now in his senior year, and he's more productive than ever.  I consider myself lucky.... very lucky... that he's still active and contributing in his Senior year.

So anyway, he shows up just as I'm managing to put down the overload of plastic bags that I had just brought in from my car.  I look at him and say "Wow, Tom... I think you finished up all the drum stuff like two days ago.  Why did you come in today?"

He shrugged and said "This is my happy place."

And that, ladies and gentlemen, was the *perfect* boost for my New Year :-)