Help, my husband is a baby boomer and decided to learn the guitar. I have no idea where this new interest came from. He doesn’t have any emotional problems and has not been going to sleep listening to guitar music. One morning he sat me down and said, “All I want for Christmas is a guitar.” I said, “ok”.
I never asked him why or what type of guitar. So off I went to a really expensive guitar store, Costco, and brought whatever was on sale. I gave him that wonderful Classical Guitar and watched a smile of appreciation but it wasn’t super joy. He then told me what kind he really wanted.
So, I gave him the refund, minus the cost of a hot dog, and he purchased what he wanted.
But what was going on in my head?
My biggest thought was “When would he have time in the midst of his busy life. I mean the man is working as a carpenter, kitchen installer, artist, art instructor and deacon/elder at church. In addition there are internet marketing projects that need his artistic talent and keen attention to details.
Well, as I pondered over these points in my mind I came to three powerful revelations
1. I went to a Christmas party given by my mom’s cardiologist. I sat eating while listening to wonderful music conducted by a band that consisted of most of his patients who had been given cardiac by-pass or other procedures. Then I was further shocked to see this middle-aged physician walk to the band and pick up an electric guitar sitting in the corner. While sitting, he played. He was calm, relaxed and peaceful.
I then realized that guitar playing for my middle-aged, baby boomer husband could provide a peaceful interruption in his mentally and physically busy day.
2. I watch him systematically practice his chords. He has organized his practice space and also attended a class at a local continuing education program. I realized that he was serious about this new passion. Isn’t it better that he spend time with his guitar than a mid-aged crush on another woman, gambling or new car we could not afford?
3. I observed my busy schedule, care giving responsibilities my mom and lack of a vacation in two years. I began to appreciate our walks in the park and visits to Barnes and Nobles early in the morning as valuable vacation moments. It did not matter that he brought more guitar tutorials, magazines and cd’s as long as he is happy.
And women if ,your man is a baby boomer and learning something wholesome and new don’t be a player-hater like I almost became.
Now it is exciting to hear him pull those notes together on both of his guitars.
Rosie
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