Player-instrument relations

Probably a lot of us can relate to the idea of our instrument being, at once, our best friend and worst enemy.
Michel Debost even compared the player-instrument relationship to a very complex marriage. The flute and I have fallen in love, settled into a routine, had our tiffs, suffered a major rift, separated for a while, and eventually reconciled. At this point, we are involved in a deep connection.

I am known to be a little moody when it comes to my music. A bad practice session can taint an entire day for me. I've been known to angrily switch the radio station when a flute concerto comes on. I have mentally pictured what my flute would look like melted down, or what it would be like to take a lighter to my pads and watch them singe and curl back from the key. I have left it out of the case in cold temperatures to "punish" it.

Yes, I am a little crazy.

Being involved in some long-term practice goals at the moment, I have to say that practicing hasn't been "fun" for me in several weeks. Until today -- which I believe saw me at the start of a new plateau. It's comforting when I just really like to play.