Music, Teaching, Learning, and Life

Several years ago I met Ross Kellan for the first time.  Ross is a wonderful musician and teacher known and loved throughout the western Chicago suburbs by scores of students and families whom he influenced during his 30+ years of service at Glenbard East High School. He went on after his retirement to join the faculty at Elmhurst College. I met him there when I joined the College/Community Band under his direction. Even though he’s widely known by educators and students alike for his excellent example, he’s also one of the humblest people I know. When we met, one of his first questions to me was, “Bonnie, what’s your story?” I didn’t know exactly how to respond at the time, but I’m working on the details of that story!

Another friend just last night commented that the ornaments we put on our Christmas trees each year tell part of our stories. I experienced that fact yesterday as my family displayed our many eclectic treasures. I’ve forgotten the stories behind many, but some ornaments stand out in my mind as marking very special moments, memories, or people who have influenced my life. I’m going to try to post a few entries of Christmas ornament memories that tell part of my story over the next few weeks.

I believe every single person has a story to share, no matter how boring or insignificant you think it might be. I imagine there are people in your life who would like to know what your story is!