Parent to a Band Kid

When your child develops an interest

In something you don't know,

Step back and see and cheer her on.

Just watch her thrive and grow.

Learn the names of all the little pieces

To her borrowed clarinet.

Listen to the same repeating tune

That you'll soon never forget.

If she walks around with wood in her mouth,

Don't worry -that's called a reed.

It does something or other for the instrument,

And sucking on it is what reeds need.

She'll prefer practice over homework,

And she'll be late daily leaving school.

But when you see her onstage focused,

You'll admit it's pretty cool.

The noise she makes will turn to music

in her hands and in your heart.

You'll not regret the gift you gave

In letting her first start.

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Kimberlee Long, May 19th, 2024

Florida. Photo by: Larissa Lima