I sit at the piano and gently run my fingers over the keys. I play a few chords and the sound is like magic to my ears. Despite everything, I smile.

The piano is horribly out of tune, though I don't mind. My ears are better then most and I can distinguish the correct note.

I begin to play a song, a sonatina. My fingers play it slower than the speed indicates, but I don't mind. I like slow. Just as I prefer piano to forte, the softer sound is gentler on my ears.

My fingers slide along the keys, and for the first time that day, I feel at ease. More than anything, I feel liberated. Free from the stress of my schooling, peers, and even life itself. I don't need my sight for this, and that is the one thing that makes me truly happy.

I remember when I had first told everyone I wanted to play the piano. I couldn't see their reactions, though I knew how they felt: as dubious as one possibly could be.

They sat me down and gently told me that I wouldn't be able to do it, but I persisted and proved them wrong.

The song comes to an end and I stop playing. I move on with the day, but the smile long remains on my face.

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Just so you don't get confused. This piano (p) means quiet/soft, while forte (f) means loud/strong.