It’s Okay to Start Over
It’s easy to get embarrassed when we don’t perform in the way in which we thought we should. When all eyes are on you, and something isn’t right. How do you respond?
I was asked to play the flute recently at a local church. Having played since age eight, I enjoy taking part in it even though I don’t play quite as often as I once did. Of course, I agreed and spent time practicing and preparing as the date got closer.
One thing remains true: I still get nervous playing in front of others. There’s the nervous pit in my stomach, the fast heart rate, and the ever-so-lovely full-body sweat. I know, TMI. The nerves keep me humble. They remind me of why I’m playing to begin with and encourage me to thank God for once again giving me the ability to play the flute in the first place.
As I stepped on stage, I took a deep breath, and the music began. Immediately, I knew something was wrong. I heard it. I play a little by ear, which means I can hear musical keys and notes and distinguish between the sounds they make. I was in the wrong key. Even if you have no formal musical training, when you sit down to listen to a performance, you know enough that if someone is off-key, it sounds bad.
I quickly started scanning the key and the musical score, wondering if maybe it was the wrong track. I attempted to jump back in and play, and nope, it was still yikes. Then I stopped and asked to restart. Thanking God, we live in a day and time where we can get a do-over. As all eyes were on me, the accompaniment track started, and I simply began again. This time, to the end, in the right key.
After the service, I was asked by multiple people how I stayed so calm. There was obviously something off, but you handled it so well. As I’ve thought back to the whole encounter, I’m reminded of why I was up there playing in the first place: to share the gift God has given me with others. It’s not ever going to be perfect, but that’s not what matters to God. What matters to God is that we are obedient in sharing the gifts and talents that God has given to us.
You have been given a gift. A unique talent, whatever it is, that God wants you to use for His glory. You may never know just how much your gift could impact someone else for eternity. You’re not expected to be perfect. God’s faithfulness is new and enough for each and every day. Our job as followers of Jesus is to be faithful, continue to show up, and glorify God in all we do. Starting over isn’t the end of the world; we are human after all. Let’s get back up and try again.
Lamentations 3: 22-26
Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end.
They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!
I say, “The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in him.” The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the person who seeks him. It is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord.
