Going back to watch my old high school's jazz band concert felt comforting yet odd during my first semester of college.
"I know a lot of these people, but it looks strange not seeing anyone from my graduating class on stage," I thought. I was on this stage with the jazz band less than a year ago, but somehow, it feels longer. It's interesting that they're using an electric bass player this year instead of an acoustic bass player like me."
The new bass player said to me after the concert, "I saw you in the audience and kept thinking you'd jump onstage to show me how the songs are played."
I wouldn't have done that, but I appreciated the acknowledgment. I enjoyed the concert, but being a spectator instead of a participant reminded me that we're all filling roles during our lives. Others had played the bass in the jazz band before me, and others would after me, as well. Some years, there will be an acoustic bassist; other years, an electric bassist will have that role.
One way or another, that role will always be filled.
