Chapter 3: The First Notes of Destiny

Chapter 3: The First Notes of Destiny

May 1995 – Stratford, Ontario

Age: 1 year, 4 months

Time had become both a gift and a frustration. My mind, sharp with the memories of adulthood, was paired with the physical limitations of a toddler. I could now walk—though unsteadily—and speak simple words, but my coordination wasn't where I needed it to be for music.

Pattie's patience never wavered. She encouraged every attempt I made, whether I was banging on the toy piano or plucking strings on the small guitar Jeremy had left behind. She didn't see it as practice for a future I already knew. She saw it as play, pure and simple.

Pattie's Perspective

Justin was unlike any child I'd ever seen. At just over a year old, he was obsessed with sound. He didn't just make noise—he experimented, listening intently to the tones he created.

One day, I found him sitting in the living room, his tiny fingers pressing the toy piano keys with surprising rhythm. It wasn't chaotic banging; it was deliberate.

"You've got music in your soul, baby boy," I whispered, my chest tightening with pride.

Justin's Perspective

Hearing those words from Pattie brought warmth to my heart. She didn't know the full truth—how could she?—but her belief in me was enough.

The limitations of my toddler body were maddening, but every day I pushed a little harder. I couldn't recreate the melodies I once knew, but I could lay the foundation.

August 1995 – Stratford, Ontario

Age: 1 year, 7 months

Jeremy's visits were still infrequent, but when he came, he always brought something for me. This time, it was a small drum set.

"Figured he could try something new," Jeremy said, shrugging as Pattie looked on skeptically.

I couldn't help but grin. The drumsticks felt awkward in my hands, but the thrill of creating rhythm was intoxicating.

Jeremy's Perspective

I wasn't around as much as I should've been, but every time I saw Justin, he amazed me. This time, it was the drums. He wasn't just hitting them at random—he was keeping a beat.

"He's got your musical side," Pattie said with a small smile, and for once, I felt like I'd done something right.

November 1995 – Stratford, Ontario

Age: 1 year, 10 months

Music had become my everything. Whether it was the piano, guitar, or drums, I was drawn to every sound. Pattie started recording my "performances" on an old camcorder she borrowed from a neighbor.

"You're going to want these memories when you're older," she said, laughing as I plunked out a tune on the toy piano.

Little did she know, these recordings would one day become treasures not just for her, but for the world.

Pattie's Perspective

I didn't know where Justin's love for music came from, but it was undeniable. His curiosity, his focus—it was far beyond his years.

"Maybe he'll be a musician someday," Diane said as she watched one of the tapes with me.

"Maybe," I replied, though in my heart, I already believed it.

Justin's Perspective

The year was coming to a close, and with it, my second chance was slowly taking shape. Every note, every beat, every chord I played was a step toward reclaiming the destiny I had once lived.

This time, I wouldn't let anything—or anyone—derail me.

---

Chapter 3 captures Justin's growing mastery of music, the unwavering support of Pattie, and Jeremy's hesitant contributions. It sets the stage for his future success while highlighting the love and determination that surrounded him in his early years.