Wei Wei / U.S.
I started learning the cello a few years ago. Yet, despite my dream of joining the orchestra in Zion, I had not practiced as diligently as I should, often hiding behind the excuse of being busy. My cello teacher would offer generous praise, always finding something positive to say. Still, whenever my lack of skill showed, I could not help feeling embarrassed. Before each lesson, I would often begin with, “I was really busy last week,” hoping for understanding. And whenever my teacher happened to postpone a lesson due to an urgent matter, I felt an unexpected sense of relief.
Recently, however, I came to a sudden realization that it was time to break this habit. I made up my mind to wake up early and practice the cello for at least thirty minutes, six days a week. I even promised myself a small cake as a reward if I could keep the routine for three weeks.
At first, the practice sessions felt long. After playing through the piece my teacher had assigned a few times, I was unsure how to fill the remaining minutes. When the timer rang to mark the end of thirty minutes, I felt relieved to have completed the day’s practice and quickly put my cello back in its case.
However, as time went on, something changed. I began to lose myself in the music. Thirty minutes would pass quickly, and sometimes my practice went on for thirty-five or even forty. Each morning, I woke with anticipation, eager to play again. When it was time to stop, new ideas for improvement filled my mind. One Sunday morning, I was so immersed that an hour slipped by unnoticed. At first, I wondered how I would stay motivated after three weeks. Yet by the time that period was nearly over, I realized that the practice itself had become my reward.
My attitude toward lessons changed as well. In the past, I had always felt nervous playing in front of my teacher. But after committing to daily practice—and knowing I had truly done my best—I began to look forward to each lesson with excitement. As class began, I would greet her cheerfully, saying, “Ma’am, I’ve been so looking forward to seeing you.”
Through this experience, I was reminded of our Heavenly Father’s teaching—that faithfulness to God is proven through action. Although I knew I still lack what is needed to enter heaven, I had not truly striven to practice or persevere. I asked myself whether I had been joyfully awaiting the day of returning to my heavenly home, or merely finding comfort in having passed another day. From now on, I will put our Father’s teachings into practice with diligence and sincerity, so that when the day comes to welcome Him, I may say with confidence, “Father, I have been looking forward to see You!”