As an avid music enthusiast, I literally am addicted to music. In short, music is life, and music is its own language.

I have been involved with music since the age of 2 when I entertained my family with some good 'ol karaoke and singing. Years down the road, I was a part of my school's marching band throughout high school as a percussionist. My parents have always told me to not overload myself at school. I believed that I was able to handle it, and, lo and behold, I did. Being involved with music has allowed me an opportunity to be able to push through the rough patches at school.

During those long nights of studying and catching up with schoolwork, music kept me focused and awake. Instead of caffeine or a can of sugar-free Red Bull, I relied on music. When I would get frustrated with something, music was able to calm me down. That is powerful.

Music, to me, is beautiful. It is a universal language known to everyone globally. When I celebrated in Brazil, the upbeat in the music connected me with those around me... people who speak another language: Portuguese. Our dance moves and rhythms acted as bridges of communication. (Next time I go to a different country, I will try to at least be proficient in the region's primary language).

Music can affect memory, learning, emotions and behavior. Many people hear stories of newborns and infants responding to music. They, too, recognize that language from the very get-go in this world. That is absolutely amazing to me. There have been many studies on how music can affect the development of babies. I recommend reading up on some of their discoveries.

Can you think of a time where music influenced you?