export_ofoct.com

[00:00.44] Today we talk about the process of learning to do something.

[00:06.30] For example, if you want to play a musical instrument, you need to learn how.

[00:13.21] You must take small steps.

[00:16.92] You learn how to hold or sit at the instrument.

[00:21.44] You learn how to read notes and how to play basic chords.

[00:27.02] Then you progress to short, easy songs.

[00:31.80] In other words, you need to take baby steps.

[00:37.65] Babies can look funny when they are learning to walk.

[00:41.36] Their steps are unsure; their knees do not quite bend fully.

[00:48.27] They do not walk straight and often fall down.

[00:52.78] The more they walk, the steadier they get on their feet.

[00:57.83] Soon their unsteady baby steps lead to a smoother, often speedy, gait.

[01:06.33] We often use the term to describe how to reach a complex goal.

[01:12.44] Small baby steps can lead to the bigger goal.

[01:17.49] We will often use the term to suggest that someone slow down and be patient.

[01:26.25] A similar English expression goes, “You have to walk before you can run.”

[01:33.43] Let’s listen as two friends use these idioms.

[01:39.00] A: Hey, how are your piano lessons going?

[01:43.25] B: Slowly. I want to play a real song.

[01:47.24] But my teacher has me working on these same set of chords over and over again! They are difficult and boring at the same time.

[01:57.60] A: I’ve been playing piano for years, and chords are important.

[02:02.64] They are the foundations of music.

[02:05.57] You need to know how to walk before you can run.

[02:09.55] B: I know, I know! But I also MUST be able to play a song by next month.

[02:17.52] A: Why are you in such a hurry?

[02:19.64] Learning music requires patience.

[02:22.83] Take baby steps!

[02:24.96] B: Please no more advice! I told a friend I could play the piano.

[02:32.66] And now she wants me to play at her children’s birthday party.

[02:37.71] A: Oh, in that case.

[02:39.57] I have other advice for you.

[02:41.69] B: What’s that?

[02:43.02] A: You reap what your sow.

[02:45.41] B: Thanks a lot. … Hey what are you doing next month…?