Ever since I was very little I have always wanted to be a singer. Other kids aspired to be astronauts and ballerinas, firemen and teachers, but I could not see myself anywhere else but singing. So in the 6th grade I decided to pursue my dream. I started taking singing lessons with a voice teacher. If you haven't already guessed, I wasn't an instant success. However, throughout the years, I've learned a lot about what it takes to be a good singer, and more importantly I've developed an attitude that allows me to cope with disappointment when your name does not appear on the that all important chosen list. Even though I haven't conquered the art of singing, I have conquered dealing with rejection.
I have learned that even when I am not chosen for a specific group, it doesn't mean I"m a bad singer. Sometimes judges are looking for a specific voice type that I might not fit. There are many factors over which I have absolutely no control. I might audition to perfection only to have the part go to someone who is a soprano, a different hair color or a head taller. Taking rejection too personally will only bring heartache and sleepless nights (believe me, I know). I have also discovered that there are countless numbers of people with amazing voices out there - but the most important thing I have taught myself is to have self-confidence. If I don't believe in myself, nobody else will.
Singing has not only become my number one hobby but it has allowed me to grow stronger as an individual. Yes, I still sometimes take rejection personally. However I try not to focus on the rejections but rather concentrate on the wonderful aspects of singing. On September 11th, I was asked to have the honor of singing the National Anthem at a Memorial Candlelight vigil in my hometown. It was very special and emotional for me because many people took this song especially personally on that day and all eyes turned to me to help them remember and honor those who were lost on that sad day.