"Si vous ne le vivez pas, cela ne sortira pas de votre corne"

At its heart, this quote is all about authenticity. It suggests that if you haven’t truly experienced or felt something yourself, you can’t genuinely express it through your art, work, or actions. It’s like trying to write a love song without ever having been in love. The emotions won’t ring true because they’re not coming from a place of real understanding.

This sentiment was famously shared by jazz legend Charlie Parker, or “Bird” as he was affectionately known. Parker revolutionized jazz with his innovative playing style and profound emotional expression. For him, music wasn’t just about technical prowess—it was a reflection of life’s experiences. Every note he played was imbued with his struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. It’s this depth that made his music resonate so deeply with listeners.

Let’s ground this idea with a vivid example. Take the story of J.K. Rowling and the creation of "Harry Potter". Rowling famously conceived the idea for Harry Potter during a train journey, but her journey wasn’t just about travel. At the time, she was a single mother living on welfare, struggling to make ends meet. These experiences of hardship and determination bled into her writing. When you read about Harry’s resilience in the face of adversity, you’re not just reading fiction—you’re feeling Rowling’s own life lessons. Readers connect with Harry’s story on such a deep level because Rowling lived those emotions herself.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by embracing your experiences—good and bad. Don’t shy away from what you’ve been through. Reflect on it, understand it, and then let it inform your work. If you’re a writer, write from the heart. If you’re a musician, play from the soul. If you’re an entrepreneur, let your personal journey shape your business ethos. The authenticity will shine through and resonate with others.

Imagine you’re an artist trying to paint a scene of heartbreak, but you’ve never had your heart broken. Sure, you could mimic the expressions, the tears, the sorrow—but it would feel hollow, wouldn’t it? Now, think about the first time you experienced heartbreak. Remember the ache, the sleepless nights, the songs you couldn’t listen to anymore? Channel that into your brushstrokes. The difference would be palpable. The viewers will feel the depth of your pain because it’s real.

Let me tell you about a friend of mine, Sarah. She’s a chef who’s passionate about farm-to-table dining. But this isn’t just a trendy concept for her—it’s her life. She grew up on a farm, helping her parents grow their own food and understanding the hard work that goes into every carrot and potato. When she cooks, she remembers these roots. Her dishes aren’t just delicious—they tell a story of her childhood, of the seasons, and of the land. Diners can taste the authenticity, and that’s why her restaurant is always packed.

So, next time you’re trying to create something—be it a piece of art, a business idea, or even a speech—ask yourself: Am I living it? If the answer is yes, go ahead and pour your soul into it. If not, maybe it’s time to gain some firsthand experience. Because, at the end of the day, your horn will only play true music if it’s echoing the life you’ve truly lived.