Life can side track you from your original plans, and then rush by, as you wonder what just happened.
The Early Years
It was not that long ago I was a music major at Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA. I had the world at my command and life was good. I thought I would set the world on fire with my music and somewhere along the road have a wife and children.
And then the cold air hit me like a Mack truck. Is there life after college? I stumbled for several years finding my work and my place in life. And there was the unresolved psychological baggage of childhood. The deck was stacked against me finding a life partner or having children. And yet, how I wanted to pass on my proud heritage.
40 Years later
Looking back, so many things I wanted to do, never got done. It seems my life took other directions. Perhaps I was too passive or too much of a frustrated introvert. I only know I am 59 and and in a different place today.
I had hoped to be married. But at least for a season, I found a real closeness with Marcia Mandle. For that, I am grateful. I had hoped to continue my education too, taking a class or two each semester. That did not happen. I thought I would become a well known jazz pianist or another Billy Joel. Perhaps It was enough work for me to be myself. I am a piano man today, yes. But a local one working the gigs, like an experienced journeyman.
Though I have lived in Davenport for 36 years, that may be coming to an end. Mom is 90 and is fragile and absent minded. I am her only family member. When I do move, I would forfeit my music career, city life and any possibility of female companionship. I am a nester more than I should be.
I have Learned What Is Truly Important
Through it all, I have learned what is truly important. Being real, having integrity and standing for truth. That is why I am a proud patriot today. That is why I support the protection of children and families from child trafficking and the CPS. In a humble way, I try to be their voice.
It is what we give back in life that matters, not our wealth of education.
It's Not The Musical Score We're Given...
Looking back, I thought life would be like a musical. You would find that leading lady and the happy ending would be forever. I know I missed out a lot in life, but I think I got what was important. It reminds me of the old Billy Joel song 'Where's The Orchestra.' This song is a metaphor on life. Billy saw the actors, and theater crowd, but missed the song of life... the music.. the orchestra. That may be because he got stuck in the balcony.
People, like actors, are placed in our lives both as mentors to learn from and examples to not follow.
But The Person We've Become
He was able to take some positives away from his introduction to the theater crowd. As long as each of us can learn the important aspects of life, that's all that matters. In the end, it may not matter if you or I were married or had children. The world is our place of servitude. For that, I am grateful to have 
I hope to find a way to reward kindness in others and continue the positive energy.
I know I have become a better person. I may not have been shaped this way, had I chosen other roads. God continues to fine tune me... and for that I am grateful.
I will leave you with the song (audio), 'Where's the Orchestra.' You will hear the hint of Allentown at the end of the recording. Introspection is good for all of us. Perhaps I will read of yours soon. Be blessed.
