Monday, February 16, 2026
When I was studying organ and would go to a lesson, invariably, there was always something “wrong” with my playing. It was my technique. It was a neglect to interpret the music satisfactorily. It was a failure to observe the correct notes and rhythms. It was a failure to get the right tempo, and on and on. My teachers were constantly pointing out my failures.
Why didn’t I give up organ study? To play the organ, you must read three lines of music and play with both hands and both feet. It might be one of the most complicated instruments to play. No wonder so many people give up on it. It’s just not worth it, or so it seems.
I didn’t give up on it, although there were several times I thought I might. I couldn’t please my teachers. Their compliments were withheld in a vault, sealed for time and eternity. The perfect performance alluded me every time, so did a lesson without critique.
In reflecting on my life, I overcame the “need” for praise. How? I do what I love. Organ playing was something I loved, so no matter how ugly the teacher was (or my playing) love never failed me.
Many of us don’t love living. The “feedback” we get, our positions, our possessions, our goal-achievements, and the reactions of others fall short of the “Glory of God.” This can weigh down on you; that is, until you realize it’s love that sustains you, uplifts you, and keeps you going. Praise is empty.
Do you love living enough to overcome need? Do you need a pat on the back for existing? Praise won’t help when you fail. When nothing else helps, it’s love that lifts you.
What do you love? Do that, then. It’s the only thing that will lift you, especially when nothing else can help.