The Trouble with Words, and Music etc.

The trouble with words
There are too many words. Too many that sound alike, too many variations of spelling.

Example: chord and cord. Pronounced the same, yet the spelling and meaning is different.
The key to deciphering what means what, is by looking at the etymology of the word, that is, the history of it.
Chord originates from Greek. Cord originates from Old French corde. Don't ask me what the originating root words mean, though. I have no idea. All I know is that chord is music-related and cord is rope-related.

Music
Tis the season for Christmas carolling. Yesterday I spent my lunch hour at Ward Music, buying some Xmas piano music for myself. Oh, the variety, variations, and numerous albums left me spinning in wonderment. What to choose? Is it necessary for me to have a few international xmas songs? German, Hungarian?? Do I only want faith-based music? (Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful)? Do I want only Xmas Broadway and Hollywood tunes?? Thank goodness for the Reader's Digest Album. It has a variety of many songs from traditional to popular.

Being in that store is always dizzying. So many choices. My music knowledge is limited and when I walk into that store, I just want to absorb everything and be able to play whatever I decide to put my hands on. Unfortunately, that's impossible. I guess I just have to start practising more and more. Maybe I'll learn a new musical instrument. I'd love to play the acoustic guitar, or even the electric bass (which I did for one year many many many years ago). Someday I'll have to buy myself a new instrument, and dedicate some time to learn it.

Etc.
Two good-byes this month.

Goodbye to Mary Grace. After a year in Canada, she's returned to S. Korea. I spent very little time with her when she was here in Canada, although I know that the time we spent together meant something great to her. She had only a handful of friends here, and always felt great comfort being around those few people she knew. I hope she is able to find success in both her professional and private life, and that her search for happiness will reward her with all that she seeks.

Goodbye to Roy. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to Roy before he left. But it's a temporary leave, as far as everyone here is concerned. When he returns, there will be much ado of his return, as his goofy and insightful personality will be missed. I know of one person who will miss him everyday that he's gone, and he will miss her like crazy too. I have only one thing to say to both of them: there is strength in love. The separation is difficult, but that'll just make the reunion all that sweeter!