I was starting to panic as I approached my 30th birthday. Unhappy with my job, unhappy in love, and feeling disconnected from others. I would walk around New York City by myself and frequently pass the tiny storefront of a dive bar in Chelsea called the B.M.W. (Beer, Music and Wine) bar. I was intrigued by the musicians playing on the stage and wanted to go in and listen, but I would have to pass by the stage and people would stare.
One Sunday, courage and curiosity won out and I boldly took my two steps forward into that bar. They were having an open mike with guitarists blasting out their two original songs as if it were The Bowery Ballroom. I hadn’t played my guitar in about seven years and never in front of an audience. I was asked if I wanted to try to write my own song and perform it next Sunday. I didn’t know if I could do but I couldn’t wait to go home, dust off my guitar and try.
I did it and it flowed from there. There, I meet the man who was the recording engineer on my CD, which is called “Two Steps Forward”, based on a song I wrote about moving on from your past. He is now my husband. I am now at peace with my career choice, and my relationships.
I often think about what my life would be like if I didn’t step in that bar on that day. Step outside your comfort zone and see what happens.
This is so beautiful and inspirational to others out there who are in the same place and wondering what lies ahead.