In college, I wanted to be a music teacher. Part of the music education curriculum requires the student to learn instruments - like clarinet.

As a piano player, learning clarinet felt like learning another language. You see, the clarinet has tone holes that the player’s fingers are required to cover in order for the pitch to change. If you don’t cover the holes adequately, the instrument squeaks. Do you know the sound of squeaky clarinets? Not fun.

Like me, every student of music that picks up an instrument squeaks at first. What separates those we consider “professionals” and the “beginners” isn’t talent, but it’s sticking it out.

Professionals stick it out.

A professional works through the squeaks because they know it’s part of the journey.

I am not a clarinet player, fortunately I had to only play the instrument for a semester. But I stuck it out, and I am proud I did.

Don’t give up on things too soon. Squeak a bit.