🌺 Part of the Essays series There’s a moment when you realize you’re not starting from the beginning anymore. When I play—usually while practicing or recording—I notice it in small ways. I’m more aware of finger placement, of how clean the strumming feels. I can hear things I wasn’t able to play a year ago. Certain chords are easier to get to. I’m looking at my left hand less and less. For me, not starting from the beginning means something tangible. I can hear it. I…