Our paths are often crossed by people with chance encounters… or are they?
Several weeks ago, I was contacted by a young man who expressed interest in becoming an instructor at the studio. I made an appointment for him to come by to meet us and show us his skill, which included finger picking guitar. I noticed that we had some mutual connections on social media so I talked with those folks a bit about him so if felt prepared for our meeting.
When he arrived, he was visibly nervous, so I did all I could to make him feel at ease. My business partner was also there, but we had not talked much about this meeting prior to Kyle entering.
He came in with his guitar strapped on his back, and nervously looked around. I offered him a coffee, he asked if we had water instead. I handed him a bottle as he put his guitar case down. I asked him to tell us a bit a bit himself.
With very polite words and tone, he said he didn’t want to sound like a “woe is me” but that life hasn’t been easy (whose is?). His dad is a heroine addict and he lived with his very strict grandmother until recently when he came to live with his mom. when he was in high school, a history teacher took an interest in him and showed him a few chords on a guitar. This was a hinge-point in his life and he began to learn to pick. He told us that he found healing in music, and a way to cope with his life. Since graduating from high school, he’s had a couple of jobs that haven’t worked out well, and is currently unemployed but wants to fill his life with music.
Sensing his nervousness continued as his story unfolded, I shared with him a bit of mine… and how I found healing in music as well after losing my dad to cancer at a very young age. I gave him the cliff notes version of how the studio came to be… and how our vision is that the studio be used as a catalyst for people to develop themselves into what Gods intended.
He got his guitar out to show use what he could play amd as he did, he said he’d have to remove his glasses because they were broken and they’d fall off as he looked down toward his guitar. When he took them off, the right stem simply dangled as if barely holding on by a thread. What a symbolic moment.
Kyle played a few tunes and pics for us, and demonstrated his passion for music. It was clear he did not have much confidence in himself and he kept apologizing for what he called “messed up”. I thought about how hard his life must be and my heart broke for him.
Dan shared a bit of his musical history and his part in the studio as well and we asked him to demonstrate more of how he’d teach people. It became obvious that he didn’t know a lot about music but could play by ear what he’s learned. We talked as but about how he could actually benefit from taking some lessons to learn more so he’d be equipped to answer questions if a student asked. He sheepishly said he couldn’t afford lessons, so Dan asked him to let us talk over how we could make it work. He agreed and we exchanged goodbyes.
A while later, I got a text from Dan saying he’s feeling led to pray about mentoring Kyle. he asked me for his contact information and made an appointment with Kyle for this Tuesday evening at the studio.
I sit back to reflect all the good that God has done and is doing… and it affirms the reason I’ve been so passionate about the music studio… what happened this weekend is an example of why we’re there. I firmly believe that God has orchestrated every bit of the story of the 12th Octave studio … for His glory alone ! I’ve prayed for a long time that God would allow me to be part of His story, changing lives… through music amd creativity
The common friend that Kyle and I shared on social media is a pastor of a nearby church that I know casually. When I inquired about Kyle, he said he couldn’t speak to his musical ability but that he had been baptized a few years ago before moving away. He said he was a nice young man. When I mentioned to Kyle this connection, he told me he hadn’t been to church “in a minute” but that he should go again.
I don’t know who Mr Best is, but I can tell you he’s made quite an impact on Kyle. Wherever he is, I hope he knows that he did a good things for Kyle, showing him the cathartic process of music.
I am praying not only for Kyle, but for Dan as he continues to pursue what God has laid before him. I pray they will both continue to grow in grace that comes from God the father alone… and I pray God will continue to use the studio to change lives.
This Kyle reminded me of another Kyle I met a few years ago, who was also impacted my music at what I believe to be a crucial time in life.
I continue to pray for all of the Kyle’s in the world… and all those searching for healing… may they find it through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
May you be blessed today and every day.
SB
Journey-For-Life 