Tyerra Rooffener The day Rylee and I performed at the school talent show was a good day. Teachers and students cheered for our successful performance as we bowed to the audience. Afterwards Rylee and I jumped into a warm embrace. But this hug did not come as easy and naturally as it looked in that moment. In fact our friendship was a slow and even uncomfortable build-up that could not have been possible without music and understanding. Making new friends can be tough, especially at a new school. I was lonely after we moved back to Missouri. I had difficulty making friends because I was looking for one special person who I could truly connect with. I wished for a like-minded friend to enter my life. One day after my piano lesson with Mrs. Huey, I met her daughter, Rylee. I bonded instantly with Rylee because of her musical background. She was talented, but she lived in a strict atmosphere at home so she was a little awkward, and came off cold and aloof sometimes. I judged her rather quickly because of that and refused to warm up to her. A lot of time passed, and I never initiated conversation to learn more about her until one day when she asked if I wanted to join her in the talent show. What started as us practicing instruments and figuring out songs to perform turned into a lively conversation. Once I started talking to her I saw that she was really funny and sweet. It turned out we had a lot more in common than I thought. We enjoyed reading the same genre of books; in fact, most of our favorite books were even the same! We also shared a love for the superhero Thor. But most of all we both had a passion for music. I began looking forward to my weekly visits to Rylee’s house. Months passed and it was finally time for the talent show. As I sat under the blinding spotlight of the school stage with Rylee, I knew in my heart that we would do a great job. The next thing I remember is the sound of applause and our unforgettable hug. Through my friendship with Rylee, I saw that I can use my love for music as a bridge to connect with others. I also learned the importance of staying open-minded when meeting new people. I learned to refrain from judging others too quickly, and to give getting to know people a chance because they often surprise us for the better. | 