In the pursuit of mastering a new skill or embarking on a novel adventure, we all begin as foolish beginners. This label, though it may sting our pride, is an essential part of the learning process. It represents the humble starting point from which we can only progress. I vividly remember a moment in my life when I wore this badge of inexperience with pride as I went for my first on my first choir practice.
I joined Xavier’s college after my SSC and in the first week of college there were flyers put up regarding choir practices for the feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola. I love singing and so I decided to join the choir.
When I entered, I was met with an enthusiastic group of singers all eager to get started. Fr. Roy was training us and shared with us the hymns that were chosen. I got a little nervous when he went around asking us whether we’d prefer singing tenor, bass, alto or soprano. I was clueless! In school I was only familiar with singing melodies and seconds. This was the first time I’d be singing with parts!
As we started the first hymn I was completely lost. I couldn’t keep up with all the others. I soon realised that I wasn’t alone, there were a few of us who were doing this for the first time. We laughed at our collective awkwardness and it and soon it created a sense of camaraderie that transcended our initial ineptitude.
As the weeks went by, something remarkable happened. With each practice, I improved. I gained confidence and started to enjoy singing with the group rather than fretting over perfection. The others too experienced similar transformations, and our shared journey from foolish beginners to melodious singers was a beautiful evolution to witness.
Reflecting on that experience, I learned a valuable lesson about embracing foolish beginnings. It’s okay to be a beginner, to stumble and make mistakes. In fact, it’s a necessary part of growth. Being a beginner means you have the courage to try something new, to step out of your comfort zone, and to embark on a journey of learning and self-discovery.
Being a foolish beginner doesn’t define your potential; it merely signifies the starting point of your journey. With dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn from your mistakes, you can progress and achieve mastery in any endeavor. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.
In the end, my singing journey taught me that the most rewarding experiences often begin with a dose of foolishness. It’s through embracing those initial fumbles and falls that we pave the way for growth, transformation, and ultimately, success. So, whether you’re learning to sing, or dance, picking up a new instrument, or venturing into uncharted territory, remember that being a foolish beginner is the first step on the path to becoming a seasoned master. Embrace it with open arms, for it is a badge of honor on the road to self-discovery and personal growth.
Kenrick Vaz 