For weeks she has been crying about piano, articulating in no uncertain terms, "I hate piano!" and so today after weeks and weeks of trying to entice her/win her over, I let her quit. I feel like an epic failure. I don't know if I did the right thing. I sought advice and attempted every strategy I could think of. There were 'treats' after lessons, practise in lieu of chores, incorporating practise as part of our games (she got to be the piano teacher) and even $ 'earned' for playing ... In the end, I couldn't make her do something she obviously didn't want to do.
Some day, she may ask why I let her quit piano. I will send her to this page ...
My Dearest Cadence:
Why did I let you quit piano? Believe me when I tell you, it was the LAST thing I wanted to do and one of the hardest. I've shed a lot of tears over it ... wondering ... did I do the right thing? Please know that I tried my very best to motivate and encourage you. I loved hearing you play. I cried the day you played for your first audience (remember the school Talent Show in grade 1?). You were brilliant! Today I cried even more. I fear that I failed you. You had such talent and I so wished you had the drive to continue, but sadly I had to accept that your heart was just not in it. Perhaps I did push you too hard. You were only 6 ... you just wanted to play and be a kid and it was time I heard you. Maybe you will pick it up again one day ... I sure hope so ... you were a natural my darling!
Love,
MOM
