Beyond The CALM Method | A Personal Story
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Recently, I had the opportunity to take a special trip down memory lane. After 32 years, I walked back into my old high school band hall, a place that holds so many wonderful memories from my teenage years.
As a proud member of the Class of 1994, I couldn't believe how much had changed. Yet walking through those doors brought back so many familiar feelings. I remembered the countless hours of practice, laughter, performances, and friendships that made those four years so special.
Looking through old marching band photos, including pictures of my brother and me, reminded me of how young we were and how quickly time flies!
Where My Love for Music Began 🎺
Growing up, music was always part of our home. I remember my dad pulling out his guitar and playing for us. As a little girl, I was especially drawn to the beautiful, powerful sound of the trumpet. Whether I heard mariachis at Mexican restaurants or trumpets playing in Tejano music, I loved how the instrument carried the melody.
When it came time to choose my electives in middle school, I knew exactly what I wanted to play. I remember my dad asking, "Wouldn't you feel more comfortable playing the flute?"
My answer was simple: "No, Dad, I want to play the trumpet!"
And that's exactly what I did, all the way through my senior year of high school.
Discovering My Passion for Color Guard ❤️
When I entered high school, another passion caught my attention: color guard! I loved watching the girls perform with their beautiful uniforms and vibrant flags. I thought, "If I can march with my trumpet, why not give color guard a try during marching season?"
Little did I know how much I would fall in love with it!
Learning the routines, spinning the flag, and finding the courage to toss it into the air took hours of practice and determination. I practiced almost every day at home, and my confidence grew. By my senior year, I had earned the honor of becoming a color guard lieutenant!
Even today, whenever I attend a football game, I look forward to watching the marching band and color guard perform at halftime. That passion has never left me.
32 Years Later, I Still Had It in Me!
One of the most unforgettable moments of my visit was picking up a flag and spinning it again after 32 years!
I couldn't believe I still remembered bits and pieces of the routines I had learned all those years ago. I originally planned to just spin the flag, but something inside me said, "Why not see if you can still toss it?"
I was nervous! After all, it had been over three decades. But I decided to step outside my comfort zone and give it a try.
I stepped outside near the band hall, where some of the current band students came out to watch and support me. I started with a speed spin, gathered my courage, tossed the flag into the air, and I CAUGHT IT!
The students clapped and cheered, and I cannot describe how wonderful that moment felt. For a brief moment, I felt like that high school girl again, doing something I absolutely loved.
Of course, my arm was sore and my wrist was aching afterward, but it was worth every second!
Sometimes, You Just Have to Believe in Yourself
Growing up, I sometimes doubted my abilities, but color guard taught me that passion, practice, and determination can help overcome fear. A new friend recently reminded me of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, and this reunion gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Reconnecting with old friends and reliving those special memories reminded me how much those years shaped who I am today.
Never let fear or self-doubt stop you from trying something you love. You might just surprise yourself! ❤️
My 11th grade year
