I get a new piano teacher at Bucknell.  His name is Barry Hannigan. After years of spinster teachers, practice drudgery and performance phobia - something changes.  Hannigan believes in me.  One day we have a heart to heart.  I tell him all about my fears and doubts about being a music major...will it lead anywhere....will I able to make a living...am I good enough......I'm scared.   Hannigan simply tells me to stop worrying about the destination and let the journey lead where it may.  I feel like a ton of bricks have been taken off my shoulders.  I feel so inspired and plunge into piano with a vengeance, happy to have a purpose to commit to, and empowered by having someone support me.

I recently find an old cassette tape in an old music box in my attic.  It contains some of my piano performances at Bucknell.  I listen and realize how far I'd gone because of Barry Hannigan.  I also remember the powerful loss I felt when Hannigan left on sebatical. Uninspired I was unable to keep up the incredible discipline it took to practice and shortly thereafter gave up piano.

I heed Hannigan's advice now and let music lead me where it may. And as I write the script of my One Woman show, retracing the steps of my life,  I realize the importance of mentors in our lives.  It can be the make or break difference...people who encourage and believe in us....  people who push us through the fears and doubts....people who challenge us to be better. It is imperative to have mentors not just in our youth but throughout our lives to propel us forward. Now, older and wiser, I consciously seek out  mentors to guide me on my path. I also consciously embrace the role of mentor to others, knowing that I can make a difference in their lives and that giving just a little bit of support can often go a long way.