My First Paycheck (by William)

Yes, it is true.  I am not kidding, I have received my first paycheck at the age of 11.  How did I do that?  I participated the rehearsals and church services during the holiday season as a young musician.  I was one of the three kids recommended by the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus to help with the church choir.  Singing for the beautiful church and making new friends was a marvelous experience for me, at the same time, I earned $140 from accepting the challenge. 

During the church services, especially the one on Christmas Eve, I could feel thousands of pairs of staring eyes fixed on the orchestra, the adult choir, and the children’s chorus.  As I looked around, I saw the warm and intent faces of the audience.  A blanket of warmth and cheer hung in the air.  The orchestra played on joyfully, lifting the spirits of man and beast alike.  Then I opened my mouth and let the music and lyrics flow out.   

 

On the first day of the rehearsal, I discovered that I am the only one from the Intermediate choir, while the other two kids are both from the Concert choir. I learned about their interests and personalities by chatting with them during breaks. One of them goes to Poly, the school I applied but was put on waiting list.  The world is never as big as you think it is.  The percussionist in the orchestra is Mr. McCoy, the Math teacher in my school.

For my $140 paycheck, I need to pay $20 to my dad who drove me back and forth for rehearsals and performances (gasoline reimbursement), and $20 to my mom for the cost of the black shirt required for the services.  After that I have $100 left.  $5 of which I will donate to charity, and the rest will be used for my school supplies and my family’s activities. 

Thank you so much Mrs. Brigham and Mrs. Jolley for this wonderful opportunity.  I made new friends and earned the first paycheck of my life!  If an opportunity like this comes by again, I am sure to take it.      
      

PS: I donated $10 to Pennies for Patients through school, and my contribution will be in good use fining cures for cancer patients.