“The Moment It Finally Felt Real”
This is my win from the Mentorship — and while it may seem simple at first glance, to me, it feels huge.
For as long as I can remember, whenever someone asked me if I could play the piano, I never felt comfortable giving a straight answer. I’d usually say something like, “Well… it depends on who you ask,” because deep down, I didn’t feel confident enough to claim it.
I always felt like I was almost there… but not quite.
But this week, something shifted in a way I didn’t expect.
Someone asked me, “Do you play the piano?”
And before I could overthink it, before doubt had a chance to creep in, I said:
“YES — I can play the piano.”
And this time, the answer didn’t feel forced.
It didn’t feel uncertain.
It felt true.
That moment was a milestone for me. It showed me just how far I’ve come — thanks to the skills I’ve learned in the Masterclass and the ongoing support from Ridley Academy and my coach, Carlos Day. It’s one thing to see progress on your own, but it’s something entirely different to feel it sink in.
A while back, someone told me my piano playing was inspiring.
I’ll admit, hearing that gave my confidence a solid boost — big enough that I joked about my head growing too large to fit through the doorway. But beneath the humor, there was something real:
a sense of pride, and the realization that maybe my music truly could resonate with someone else.
Not long after that, I received an email from Ridley Academy letting me know I had officially passed the Masterclass — after finally uploading my video for critique. Their feedback was incredibly kind.
Just when my head was starting to shrink back to normal size… it grew again.
But honestly? I needed that win. I needed that reassurance that the time and effort I’ve been putting in is leading somewhere meaningful.
And now, after being away from the Mentorship Program for over five months, I’m thrilled to say that as of December 1st, 2025, I’m officially back in.
It feels like stepping back onto a path I started long ago — one that I’m excited to continue.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to improve my skills on the piano exponentially.”
Getting back into Mentorship feels like momentum returning. It feels like I’m finally giving myself the chance to grow again — steadily, intentionally, with the right guidance.
Looking at all these little wins — being told my playing is inspiring, passing the Masterclass, returning to Mentorship, and finally feeling confident enough to say “yes, I play the piano” — I realize they’re not little at all.
They’re signs of progress.
They’re proof of growth.
And they’re reminders that consistency pays off.
I’m proud of where I am, and even more excited about where I’m heading.
With appreciation,
Clarence Weima
