Today, I learned from a fellow music lover and peer (Flash) that when you are doing what you love and times are rough, no matter what is going on in life-stick with it. It's not about what's trending and hot right now, but all about the love. When you love it, there is nothing that will keep you from it. In the past few years, I had been so far removed from music to the point that I felt like a foreigner to myself. It seems to me that I was, in my latter 20's to early 30's, trying to find my way. I was caught up in the hustle that it took to be a working DJ. Did I have what it would take? Aesthetically, was I gonna make it without being a dolled up femme behind the turntables? Of course, I talked myself out of it and abandoned music altogether. Now, at 34, I am finding my way back to the medium that I love so much. I can't ever see myself straying away from it ever again. It is part of who I am. Therefore, I am coming back full force without any apprehensions, doubts or fears. My path of clarity is so crystal clear that I am elated and grateful for what is ahead.
As I sat across the table from Flash, we also talked about the relevance of mentorship. It is vital that the mentor be supportive and encouraging. It as equally important that the mentee be dedicated to the craft and the hard work that comes along with strengthening talent or skill. Mentorships should not be about hoarding information or belittling the mentee. We have to be available to pass down what we know to those who are coming up behind us us. Our enthusiasm must be infectious and most of all-we push those who are coming behind us to remain diligent.
The moral of the story is this:
All in all, do what you love. Try your damnedest not to walk away from it. You would not be honoring yourself or whatever it is that lights your fire.
Thanks for the chat Flash and also the reminder...always necessary.
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