Life most certainly is GOOD!
Two years ago, I was a mess. I had just walked out of my old life (the only one I had known as an adult) after 12 years. I was living with my mom and brothers. I drove an old beat up bakkie. I was counting pennies for the first time in YEARS. There were many family members angry with me - that has only changed somewhat...
Here I am, 2 years later, living in my FAVOURITE suburb in Cape Town. My family lived here for a short time when I was a child, and I lived here as a student. It was always my desire to come back and live here again! My bakkie is no more. I drive my loving partner's MERCEDES BENZ, and he drives my Renault. We don't have cash lying around, but we certainly eat away from home often, go to the movies very often, theatre occasionally, and never worry about money. I lost the respect of some dear family members when I left my old life. My relationships with them are still strained, and I believe it will stay so - but in exchange for that, I have gotten my immediate family back. My Mom, Dad, brothers, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces are finally part of my daily life again. They are pillars of strength and love. I also have a new family: Shaun's family has welcomed me into their homes and their hearts. I already have a reputation as a great cooker of foods and baker of fine breads and cakes. His mother especially has found a place in my heart. LIFE IS GOOD!
That is it. I will not write about my past in this blog anymore. I am letting go. Finally!
The present. As most of you know, I resigned from my job last year. Resigned, even though I had NO IDEA what my future held financially. That is the past!
I promised myself I would never again work so hard that I am constantly sick, and I haven't. My biggest responsibility work-wise has become the church (again). I am (very proudly) the Musical Director at Christ (Anglican) Church, Constantia. I grew up in the Anglican Church, and I LOVE the Anglican Church. I play for Sunday services and I teach the choir. My church choir has mostly retired people singing in it, and they are a lovely bunch. We have so much fun on a Thursday night: preparing for Sunday, learning anthems and talking K@K! The best part of being in a choir is getting to know the people - and I have a varied bunch! Shaun sings in the choir too - he has brought down the average age of the choir significantly (innocent smile). Their love and commitment inspires me!
Responsibility no 2: Groote Schuur High. I teach at the afore-mentioned school 2 days a week with my dear friend Ronel. We have a beautiful relationship. Whenever either of us has faced difficulty, we would get together and LAUGH at our unfortunate situations. When I wrote off a car for the first time, Ronel laughed (and made me laugh) at the moment when I thought my life could get no worse! I am the piano teacher for senior students. I really love teaching, and seeing so many students over 2 days is really special. These kids are so talented - one of them started playing the piano last year, and is playing at Grade 7 level now!
Responsibility no 3: My Private Students. I put out word that I had time to take on private students again. I was flooded with interested people. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays I teach singing and piano privately. From beginners to performing professionals, singers recording their first CD's, others trying to get that single out and heard, university students needing help and inspiration and housewives needing a release - I have them all. They all trust ME! Isn't that amazing???
Responsibility no 4: The Magnificats..... I LOVE this choir. They have individually and as a group crept into my heart. It's a privilege....
It sounds like a lot, but it really is not half as time consuming as before....
In addition to this, I am going to perform again this year. MY GRAND (ma se) PIANO is back. Slightly different. I am doing the Grahamstown festival again, and when I get back this time, I must sell the show. The response I have had as a performer has always been positive - although I fear it greatly! Watch this space...
Life is Good! I have purpose and I have (most importantly) Shaun....
