For those who can recognize a drum, a trumpet, a stand up bass, etc., and use computer files and programs, I am at a loss as to how to use the myriad bits and pieces of sonar to create a piece of music I can replay. Is it the lack of clarity or definition of the "programs" that I'm missing? 
(PS: There must be others like me...., I hope?)

Do you play an instrument yet, or have any background in music theory?  Are you just trying to learn how to apply the computer to the music creation process using virtual instruments?
 
You would probably get more helpful answers if you supplied some specifics about what you are trying to accomplish, along with what version of Sonar you have, and a description of your bits and pieces that you are working with.
 
If you already know music, then it would mostly be a matter of studying a few Sonar tutorials and learning how to use the virtual instruments included.  I assume virtual instruments is one goal because you posted this question in the Cakewalk Instruments forum.

If this is question about how to use SONAR, I can move it to the SONAR forum.
If this is a question about specific Cakewalk plug-ins bundled with SONAR or instrument plug-ins sold by Cakewalk  this is the right place.
 
It is up to the OP to clarify.

Thanks to both of you. I think the bundle is more along the lines of the question. 

Still not much help for those who want to help.
Tutorial #4 covers the basics.
Each synth works a little differently when it comes to loading sounds.
What synths you have depends on which version of SONAR.
 

What version of Sonar are you using?
What type of music or sound do you love, or want to play to practice?
 
What you need is a good quick beginners tutorial of how to make sounds within Sonar.. (I'll get to that later.)


I bought the Groove3 Sonar Explained video tutorial which helped a lot to understand Sonar Professional out of the box.
I've also spent time watching quite a few online tutorials and videos on YouTube, which have certainly helped get inspired and motivated (and rather excited).
A few years ago when playing with Sonar trials, I watched Learning Sonar X2 with Garrick Chow at Lynda.com
 
As soon as I came across some sounds I loved hearing in Synths - I quickly appreciated the Piano Roll view and how simple it is to paint in notes.
When I came across drum sounds (or other sounds) I liked - I learned how cool the Step Sequencer is.
 
What I'd like to see more on YouTube is quick beginner guides that focus on getting sound out, without worrying what the sound or results are like. Beginners just want to make a sound. It's motivation they need. It's then up to them to choose or make better sounds.

This is the best free tutorial on Sonar around.  Professionally produced by SWA.
 
SWA Complete Sonar X2
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKRYWdEpbc5PgUgvrNuSvVyfv5qkll0qj
 
Here are the chapter names and video lengths of each video contributed by another user...
http://steamcommunity.com/app/241070/discussions/0/613936039427400097/
 

Welcome to the Cakewalk forum and to Sonar, probably the best music creation software on planet Earth.

My only advice, at this time is, stick with it, you won't regret it