Music has been a big part of my life while growing up. I come from a family of music lovers. Both my grandfathers played various instruments. I remember gathering with my cousins to dance and listen to music every time we were together. It was so much fun!

I began my journey like many others at the age of 8. First I learned the recorder but soon learned how to play the piano. We didn’t have a piano at home, so I had to go back to school to practice or my mom would arrange something with someone who had one.

I remember the time I got my first keyboard. It was a small one, but it was mine. My grandparents gave it to me as a Christmas present when I was 11 years old. Finally I could practice at home!

I kept the keyboard right through my schooling, but as I got older and the piano pieces more difficult, I had to go to school each afternoon to practice again. I was gifted a proper piano when I was 16.

As I look back at this, I can see the Lord working in my life. He gifted me with a talent for music, but to cultivate it, I had to put in some effort. I learned that even though my circumstances weren’t ideal, there is always a way. Learning this early on in life helped me later in life to push through and complete what I started, to never give up.

In Hebrews 12 we are called to let go of hindrances and endure in our heavenly race. Ephesians 6 says we are equipped with God’s armour. To keep on fighting the battle, we need to put it on.

Just as I had to make an effort to ensure I train for piano, we have to train for the heavenly race and trust our Heavenly Father to provide all our needs. We need to do daily Bible study, draw closer to God and let Him lead the way. Keeping our focus on Jesus helps us to endure and also to persevere.

This was not the end of my musical journey, but this period in my life taught me that perseverance and endurance is key to success, but keeping my eyes on Jesus is the most important of all.

May you be inspired to persevere and patiently endure!

With love

Catherina