Sean Zearfoss

41. When I decided I wanted to be in rock 'n' roll bands at Harrison High School in early 2002, it was a simple question of economics. Using supply and demand to my benefit, I saw everyone else was getting into guitar (or bass, as a fallback) and chose to play drums instead. Even if I sucked (I argued to myself), I'd have a better shot of joining a band because there weren't a lot of us to choose from. "Y'all are kind of stuck with me, because I'm all you've got," was my basic thought. It would be a few years before I joined my first real band, but the choice ultimately worked out.

24 years later and this was one of the most important decisions I've ever made. I cannot remember how many parties, vacations, career advancements, or perhaps other "major life events" I've skipped for practices, shows, or tours. I've currently got 4 active bands, with records and shows in the works for all of them. It is an *unbelievable* amount of work and time, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I've gotten to make art with my best friends for over half my life, if only because there aren't enough drummers to go around. 😉 Either way, I do not take a second of this life for granted.

I feel like the luckiest man alive with the best family, partner, and friends in the world. Honestly, it's not even close. Though I haven't traveled or read as much this last year, I'm determined to make more time for both next year. And I look forward to record collecting, eating good food, having good conversation, going to sleep earlier, and thinking about old buildings, as always.

For those keeping track, I have not lost my water bottle(s) or sanity this year, but I did have to borrow a cap for one water bottle because I couldn't easily hold the broken attachment when I walked. My Casio watch might have finally stopped working properly, so we'll see if I get a new one today. I've asked. 👀 I've also asked for a donkey, but I don't think I'll get that...yet.

Thanks for reading if you've made it this far. I'll catch y'all at 42. 😎✌️

P.S. I also first heard Bill Ward play "War Pigs" somewhere around 1999, so that was quite clearly the first time I thought that drums might be for me.