Music for the soul
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As I was running my errands today, instead of driving in silence or listening to a podcast or book, which is how I often drive, I decided to turn on some tunes. WOW. I forgot how much music influences me. Before I knew it, I was dancing and singing to the music. My heart rate increased and I felt happiness overcome my body and soul. In order to write this, I turned the music back on for inspiration. As I listen, memories are flooding. During each walk of my life, I can remember the songs that got me through the hard times, and made the good times that much better. I was introduced to really amazing music through both of my parents. They gave me their vinyl collection when I was young and it was off to the musical races for me. The Grateful Dead. Hendrix. Sting. Fleetwood Mac. America. Black Sabbath. Not only did I have records, I was lucky enough to live right by a Rich Stadium in Buffalo, NY. So many nights were spent outside with my family and friends, listening to the live concerts as their music carried through the air. These memories make my eyes tear up and my hairs stand up on my arms and neck. There was so much laughter. So much singing. So much dancing. So much love. Such an amazing connection…to others…to the music…to the universe. Lately, I have forgotten how much I need music in my life. It fills my heart. It fills my soul.
I have gone through many stages of music. Teens were sprinkled with Marilyn Manson, Nine Inch Nails, Hole, Korn, Deftones, Tori Amos, Violent Femmes….ahh yes, the angsty teenage years. College was sprinkled with some of the good old bar songs like Sweet Caroline, Piano Man, Tiny Dancer…I liked the hole in the wall bars if you couldn’t tell. Moving along to my mid and upper 20’s, I started checking out the club scene. M.I.A and Lourdes were some of my jams. Nelly was (and still is to me) a goodie. Not to mention 50 cent.
Although I still listen to all of these bands, and many, many more (I didn’t even mention the girl power music!), there has always been one band that has moved along with me throughout life. They have been steadfast and present. They have been my healer when wounded. They have created laughter and connection. The Grateful Dead. They will always be my band. My favorite. They spoke my heart when I didn’t have the words. I am grateful I found a way into the concert with Michelle Curvin when we were 14 years old so I had the chance to see Jerry Garcia before he passed. That was one of the most emotionally overwhelming concert I have ever attended. I remember looking around and seeing people of EVERY age. I remember thinking “this is the most beautiful thing”. I started dancing as tears rolled down my face as I was laughing.
Music is self care. I forgot that during my last blog. I am glad I remembered it today. I am glad I turned the music on today.
My friends, I encourage you to:
- Turn on the music
- Turn it up…loud
- Sing
- Dance
- Laugh
- If there is someone else in the room/car/space with you, grab them and start dancing
- Allow the music to overcome you
- Allow the music to heal and move you
Much Love, LJ