Born in a musical world, she lived by the song of her heart. An innocent child whose love knew no bounds, she experienced life in feelings and sounds. Her soul was filled with compassion and artistry, her mind was pure and bright; she loved so much it made her cry, this beautiful girl Relena.

She met her best friend when she was eight, the two have been inseparable ever since. They spend countless hours together, sharing the feelings that no one sees, and they’ve been through it all, this friend that does not speak. Her friend is not a person, but might have a soul. This friend was her dear old piano.

From the moment they met, she rose to fame. She became a prodigy, performing at concerts across the world. Relena impressed all with her youth, beauty, and skill. Everyone adored her and they thought she was perfect. This young girl, with so much talent and joy, must always be happy.

Relena.

Now a young woman, the world still in awe, continued to play the piano as she always did. Six hours a day she practiced, playing until she could play no more. However, the joy she once felt as a child was no longer there, something was deeply amiss.

“Why am I not happy?” She asked herself daily. She was progressing as a pianist and was surrounded by loving people. She had every reason to be happy, but felt quite sad, and lonely too. Life seemed bleak and unforgiving, while it should be colorful, full of love and beauty.

In this sadness she decided to go on an adventure to a country across the sea. During her experience on this foreign land, she realized the most precious gift of all: God’s absolute love for her. No matter how sad or lonely she felt, she knew that she was never alone. God always loved her even when she didn’t love herself.

Relena returned home with joy and confidence– her adventure had taught her what she needed to know. She was excited for the future, ready for the possibilities ahead, but as she resumed her life back home, she felt a slight ache tinge her soul. Life wasn’t what she hoped to be.

Although she felt the embracing love of God, Relena yearned for something more. She yearned for a companion who appreciated and understood the same things she did. And even though she was surrounded by people, she felt unaccompanied. She was playing a solo, but longed for a duet.

Relena…

The serenade of a piano fills the darkened concert hall. On the illuminated stage is a delicate woman with dark hair wearing a crimson dress. Her eyes are closed as she plays her piano with magnificence. The audience is mesmerized, wishing her performance would never end.

I sit amazed in the crowd, listening to her play from a distance. The beauty and depth of her song calls to my heart. I’ve not felt this anywhere.

She may feel unaccompanied, but she’s not alone.

I’ve been listening.

I am here.