If the goal here at Cooldrums.ca is to help drummers develop an original style, then we need to consider philosophy. Much has been written on the subject with respect to human nature, but few discourses have focused on drumming. In my opinion, happiness, peace of mind and genuine originality can only be achieved through the application of the following 11 principles:
Faith
Having faith in something larger than ourselves brings meaning to our lives. This unfailing support system opens up a direct communication channel to God allowing us to pray for guidance, purpose and understanding. If we listen closely, watch for the clues and commit to the long haul, we can piece together a masterful plan for our musical lives.
Love
Drummers are leaders and as such should show compassion in the face of adversity. A sure sign of a loving person is their ability to not judge others. When they act, they do so unconditionally and without expectation of anything in return. Love by its very nature has the power to bring overwhelming joy to those who make the time to give it away.
Duty
When you imagine your life as being a mile long, you soon realize how precious the journey is. Since time is of the essence, we need to prioritize our most valued tasks and write down what needs to get done every day. Listen to your intuition, move swiftly on its instructions and your life’s purpose will reveal itself to you in mysterious ways.
Family
Everyone gets dealt a hand in life. Good or bad, we have to play the cards in front of us. If we express gratitude for what we do have, we begin to see the opportunities turning up in spades. The members of your family were sent here to teach you things you would never have known. It’s a good idea to return the favor and learn to influence them in positive ways.
Properity
Life is hard enough without having to worry about money. The first thing you need to do is shift your mind to prosperity consciousness and allow good fortune to flow freely into your life. Start saving, investing and spending your money wisely. Visualize the kind of luxury lifestyle you want and you’ll be motivated to make the right decisions.
Creativity
Creativity is all about twisting, bending and altering ideas into unusual forms. We can then take those forms and arrange them into pleasing patterns. Strive to different; simplicity is the key. A good technique to use is expressing all aspects of your life in an artful way. Start with little things then build up to masterful works that are original in nature.
Passion
Mastery of the drums requires passion. Although passion burns from within, it must be fuelled by the desire to do extraordinary things. Set your benchmark high and push towards your highest potential. You will never know what is possible unless you keep on keeping on. Advance confidently with persistence and unexpected miracles will surround you.
Wisdom
Keep your intentions focused on those things you wish to appear. You will be tested at length in your lifetime so be sure to learn from every opportunity that presents itself. These experiences enrich your life and provide you with the necessary insights to breakthrough. Knowledge comes at a cost, but wisdom is priceless.
Truth
Speaking the truth in all situations is an act of reverence and respect for life. When you are honest with yourself, you begin to see there are no limits on what you can create with your mind. Knowing the universe is perfectly calibrated to produce things exactly on time, you can excitedly anticipate the future knowing full well your calling is unfolding all around you.
Health
A healthy physical body is your ticket to freedom on the drums. If you want to maintain good health over many years, immerse yourself in nature and embrace God’s source of wellbeing. To achieve an optimum state, develop speed, endurance, coordination and flexibility. It is also vitally important to balance energy flow through proper diet, exercise and rest.
Character
It’s not so much what we achieve in life, but what we become as a result of the effort. Approach your days with a novel and humorous outlook and act with integrity in all you do. Be vigilant, courageous and brave and character will be your stronghold. Do this with urgency and circumstances will guide you to a place where destiny awaits.