Discussion Thread: Good Things

One of the ways we resist the demoralization and despair in which exploiters of fear like Trump thrive is to keep talking about the good things in our lives.

Because, even though it feels very much (and rightly so) like we are losing so many things we value, there are still daily moments of joy or achievement or love or empowering ferocity or other kinds of fulfillment.

Maybe you've experienced something big worth celebrating; maybe you've just had a precious moment of contentment; maybe getting out of bed this morning was a success worthy of mention.

News items worth celebrating are also welcome.

So, whatever you have to share that's good, here's a place to do it.

* * *

In the comments of last Thursday's Question of the Day thread, Shaker bellist, who suggested the question, which was about musical instruments, mentioned having been given an ocarina.

I had no idea what an ocarina was, so, as is my habit when I encounter something new, I excitedly began researching it — and, within a short space of time, I was falling madly in love with György Ligeti's Violin Concerto, which features the ocarina. I'd never heard that piece before, and it's so mysterious and so beautiful!

Anyway. I've been wanting to pick up a new musical instrument for a long while, but the financial threshold to entry for so many instruments is far too high, when I'm not sure I'll have the time and energy to commit fully to learning, no matter how much I want and intend to learn.

However, I found a basic plastic alto-C ocarina, recommended by an instructor on some introductory video lessons I watched, for $40. It just arrived last night, and I'm super excited about it. I'd already practiced the mouthing technique, so I can create a nice sound, even though I don't know the fingering yet.

It's nice to be embarking on a new adventure, which is a good thing. Thank you, bellist, for the question and your answer, which set me on this journey!