This story was written and submitted by Gutsy Gal reader Connie Orud.
As far back as I can remember, two of my greatest life's passions were to be a mother one day and to always have music in my life.
As a young girl, I played the piano, then guitar and started singing. I wanted to be a rock star! But I lacked the confidence to pursue it. As life got busy and being the "social bug" that I am, I would go in and out of playing music. As I got older and pursued a career as a stylist, I jumped from one relationship to another hoping to find love. I enjoyed life ... not always making the best decisions, but the decisions I made taught me well.
It seemed like my career was in full bloom as a stylist, but I was unlucky in love. I would continue to allow my music to float in and out of my life. I met someone at 37 who I fell madly in love with and spent the next two years with. It was a questionable relationship to say the least, but taught me valuable lessons. And from that relationship came a beautiful baby boy who changed my life forever in such profound ways. He is the love of my life and someone who I learn from daily.
Being a single mom has stretched me, strengthened me, throttled me, made my heart jump to the sky, fall to earth with reality, shoot to the moon and made me laugh till I cry. I am grateful to have the gift of this child in my life. I am a better person, a stronger person, a more loving and grounded person because of him. And as for the music being "displaced" in my life ... I have realized not to put your dreams on "hold." Today is for living.
I'm singing in a band again, doing some solo work and will continue to do more performances as an artist. I think somewhere deep inside me, I never really felt good enough, confident enough to "go for it." Now more than ever, I live in the moment, love each day for what it brings and cherish those in my life I am blessed to know. Who love me, encourage me and believe in me. I only hope I give to them what they so willingly give me.
I want to help others "realize" their dreams ... and shoot for the moon!
