This may come as a surprise to some if not all of you but before I came here, I used to feel that dreams and wishes were nothing but a waste of time. I also felt that if I didn't do my best at something – whether it be at school, in sports, or whatever – then I wouldn't have to face as much bitter disappointment. This was my way of avoiding getting hurt. My way of protecting myself, protecting my heart.
The moment I joined the high school marching band, my whole philosophy on life was changed.
At first, I just tried to blend in with the shadows. I never raised my voice unless it was to out cheer some wanna-be band that thought they were loud and I never voiced my opinion without it being asked for first. All I wanted to do was play music. That's all. The funny thing about band is that you can't do that. You can't hide. I hated that.
The reason you can't hide is everyone in band immediately has this bond with everyone else. You are instantly a part of this big family from the very first moment that you sign up.
Band really is like a family. No matter how much you hide, someone will find you because everyone cares. Even if you aren't particularly liked, everyone will still back you up because that is just how it is. That's what I love most about band.
Band forced me out of my self-imposed isolation. It made me always strive to do my personal best. But, I feel that the best thing about band is that it let me dream without ever having to worry about being judged or ridiculed. I wasn't laughed at for who I was. I could finally be me without worrying.
Now I have many dreams and aspirations. My biggest dream is to be able to direct a band of my own. I want to be able to show the students that they will always have somewhere to go and someone to go to. I won't allow anyone to give up. Not on music, their friendships, or even their life. I won't let them give up like I almost did.