wow. big wow. By the time I finished the essay, I was no longer inclined to quote seriously (though I will jokingly) the old Chinese proverb, "If thine enemy wrong thee, buy each of his children a drum."

And those photographs brought tears to my eyes.

C

As someone who took violin lessons from age 5 through 18, I can tell you that though I don't play anymore, music enriched my life enormously. Violin gave me a musical ear, which led to a good singing voice, which led to an interest in piano. The people I met through orchestras and choirs are some of my best friends. Maybe, when he gets older, music will give Damian another way to relate to his peers.

I suppose you avoided using the "marching to the beat of a different drummer" cliche on purpose? But man, if anyone ever brought a cliche to life, it's this boy. Those pictures are truly incredible. You guys are just a family full of gifts, aren't you?

Oh, Bravo, bravo, brao !

You are the kind of parent I wish all children could have.

Cheers

As a fellow drummer, I say gooooooooo DAMIAN!!!! (Drum roll, cymbal clash) I have a feeling he'll stick with it, and even if he doesn't, it will stick with him. I find that rhythm carries over into many aspects of my life, whether it's training a horse, or simply using rhythmic breathing while running or singing. I suspect he'll find added benefit as well. And good for you, Tamar, you are a Good Mother! /Bee

Yay!! What a lucky kid to have such creative and supportive parents!