I perform often, but hardly ever for money. I continue to take flute lessons, and practice regularly, but I don't kill myself doing it. I have no particular goal, such as admittance to a conservatory or an orchestra position. I simply want to become a better musician, at whatever pace that happens, and enjoy the music and the learning process in a non-stressful way. I play because I love to play, not because I have to.
Love is the most important quality to bring to any task.
Love draws all that we have within us to the action in which we are involved. Love does not bring forth censorship and defensiveness, conditions that adversely affect our learning ability. Playing the flute brings joy and light and beauty to my daily life. Being an amateur gives me freedom to do what I wish with my musical talent. I can make mistakes, play less than perfectly, and allow myself to grow by the very process of learning to accept my imperfections.