Hidden Messages

Have you given the person you love a hug today? So often in our busy world we pass over some important things because we get caught up in the activities and responsibilities that are on our "to do" list and that are necessary for us to get through the day. Small gestures and attitudes can deliver hidden messages in a way that should not be overlooked. Finding the energy and the couple of seconds to give a hug, give a smile or say "thank you" are so important because the hidden message says "we care."

When we take our children to music lessons, practice with them every day, listen to the Suzuki recordings ourselves or together with others, we are sending the message that music is important. When we incorporate music into our holiday celebration, attend concerts, or play music in the household we are sharing the message that we value music. While you are travelling and unable to practice physically on an instrument, remembering to listen to the Suzuki repertoire being learned helps to retain and stimulate our memories so that we do not lose newly developed skills. If music is important, then finding a way to make it "happen" shares the message that life circumstances may change and solutions can be found.

Sometimes when we are in a hurry, we may be a little careless and inadvertently send a different message than desired. For example, allowing a student to skip practicing because they don't have time can inadvertently send a message that this is a reward for lack of time management. Cutting short practice time or rushing through practicing is something we do not want our children to do. However, we may have given this message when we say, "let's get practicing over with" implies it is a chore that we want "done" rather than something that is enjoyed: exploring a new piece, developing an advanced technique, or reviewing learned repertoire can be re-interpreted if the adult sends a hidden message by words that imply they do not have the time to spend on it.

Children tend to be very focused when they are playing. The experience of creating, drawing, building are all absorbing to their concentration. We adults can sometimes disturb this concentration by pulling the child away from their activity before they themselves are actually finished. This shortens their attention span.

Our hidden messages can be very positive. During the coming week where we may find more time to spend with our families, I hope we may all share the positive messages that we intend with our loved ones and with each other: music is important, I love you, I care, and I am grateful.

Sachiko