Eleven

Eleven was a pivotal age in my childhood, not for any dramatic reason, but because that was the age where I began to have time to myself. When I was younger, Mom would chauffeur all four of us around as she ran her errands. When I turned eleven, she started leaving me at home (my three sisters still went everywhere with her).

With more time to myself, I had more time to read and to think about my own interests. I began to study music theory that year thanks to a book that my mother gave to me as a gift (thanks again, Mom!). My skills as a composer started with the hours that I spend sitting at the piano working through the chapters of that book.

Three other events occurred when I was eleven. I don't know whether these events had an impact on my personal development, but they definitely made an impression. 

First, I developed an interest in the science fiction genre. I remember perusing my grandfathers' TV Guide and circling any science fiction programs or movies. I noted the times and took my handwritten schedule home for future reference. 

I also attended my first wedding at age eleven (at least the first one that I can remember). I remember the beautiful music that they played during the ceremony. I also remember running out of gas and walking home that night. I haven't run out of gas since.

Finally, at age eleven I began to listen to a weekly radio broadcast featuring the top selling music recordings. 

It's interesting how experiences from our childhood live on in our memories. Even if those experiences didn't seem all that shocking or important at the time, they can add dimension to our lives and shape who we are in subtle and not so subtle ways.

Copyright © 2015 Daniel R. South 

All Rights Reserved