Looking Back
by Edgar A. GuestI might have been rich if I'd wanted the gold
instead of the friendships I've made.
I might have had fame if I'd sought for renown
in the hours when I purposely played.
Now I'm standing to-day on the far edge of life,
and I'm just looking backward to see
What I've done with the years and the days that were mine,
and all that has happened to me.
I haven't built much of a fortune to leave
to those who shall carry my name,
And nothing I've done shall entitle me now
to a place on the tablets of fame.
But I've loved the great sky and its spaces of blue;
I've lived with the birds and the trees;
I've turned from the splendor of silver and gold
to share in such pleasures as these.
I've given my time to the children who came;
together we've romped and we've played,
And I wouldn't exchange the glad hours spent
with them for the money that I might have made.
I chose to be known and be loved by the few,
and was deaf to the plaudits of men;
And I'd make the same choice should the chance
come to me to live my life over again.
I've lived with my friends and I've shared in their joys,
known sorrow with all of its tears;
I have harvested much from my acres of life,
though some say I've squandered my years.
For much that is fine has been mine to enjoy,
and I think I have lived to my best,
And I have no regret, as I'm nearing the end,
for the gold that I might have possessed.
Mindful escape through guitar playing; gaining some distance from one’s racing thoughts. The act of learning and mastering guitar may also improve your emotional and psychological health in other ways, such as by giving you a sense of accomplishment. Schools, charities, and healthcare facilities are increasingly realizing that teaching people to play the guitar may help them deal with stress, boost their memory, improve their communication and motor skills, and make them feel more confident in their daily challenges.
Getty Images/Moment/Halfpoint Images
It should be no surprise that a group of Dutch researchers would investigate the correlation between musical training and systolic blood pressure, given the prevalence of music therapy in Dutch primary care. The guitar is unparalleled as an instrument for free expression, whether you’re composing your music or arranging covers for a band. If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea for an essay for school or a list of ideas to present to your employer, picking up the guitar and noodling about for a few minutes might clear some mental space for an inspired thought to drop in.
When words fail us, many guitarists believe that playing the guitar allows them to more effectively convey their sentiments, work through their emotions, and feel heard. Some of you may find that playing the guitar is incredibly therapeutic to express your thoughts, feelings, desires, and concerns, whether via a soaring solo or a few simple chords that strike a chord in your soul in a way that words alone could never do.
The confidence and pride you gain from mastering the guitar will amaze you. As you progress in your musical education, you will eventually have to perform for someone, whether a family member, friend, possible bandmate, or an audience. Despite any initial anxiety, playing guitar in front of an audience can help you become more comfortable with public speaking and showcasing your artistic abilities.