If Life Gives You Lemons, Enjoy Them!

Lessons From A Lemon

The other day I visited the Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego's Balboa Park with dear friends who were visting from Canada. The place practically vibrated with a peaceful beauty-- seemingly every plant was singing it's own song of beauty, life, and serenity. I really enjoyed spending time with friends in this special place.

I didn't realize it when I took this photo, but lemons symbolize similar things in many cultures, including wealth, plenty, good fortune, longevity, good health, purification, love, and friendship. Often, lemon is used to refresh, cleanse, or renew. In all things moderation, however: the lemon can also symbolize bitterness and disappointment. I wonder if "too much of a good thing" applies here? The lemon is well known for the adage, "if life gives you lemons, make lemonade." But I say, look at that beautiful lemon! Let's enjoy it! 

It's a bit off topic concerning "all things horn," but not really-- part of being human is experiencing life's ups and downs, and these experiences shape and inform us as musicians. When we have the chance to experience beauty, love, friendship, and peacefulness all at once, it is truly a special moment to be cherished. I was so happy in the moment I took this photo.

These are the moments that that give us strength in our music and our life when we need it. These are the moments (and then memories) that transform who we are, as people and as musicians. I hope you "stop and smell the flowers" in your own way today and everyday.