Is there Music in Your Life?

26th May, 2010 - Posted by L. John Mason -

I can go weeks without any focus on music and only news radio as a companion in the car. Then, I feel like something is missing and news radio becomes annoying. I turn on the “smooth jazz” station or I pop the Red Hot Chili Peppers CD in the CD player or I grab another CD and give it a listen… As I sing along or at least follow the beat and the rhythm, I find that difficult to describe sensation of appreciation and positive distraction that music offers to me.

Why music triggers this positive escape from my thoughts of daily coping I can not really explain. How do you describe that feeling in your heart when you experience music? How can I communicate the change in my mental state of awareness when I immerse myself in this different world of music?

I have little talent to make music, though I wish I could. I tell myself that I do not have the time, energy, or dedication to practice an instrument that will provide a reasonable and understandable experience of melody. I wonder how musicians gain their abilities to link notes together in a recognizable pattern. I wish I could make music but do not feel that I can…

There are times when I feel that I love music and can not live without it. It gives me a sense of connection that others may feel as they experience the music. Audiences feel connected to each other and to the music when the situation is “right” and connection is usually a good thing.

I like a variety of music though sometimes “too much of a good thing” happens more quickly with some forms of musical expression. I do not understand why bagpipes are great but after 15 minutes this music just seems to grate on my nervous system. Why do some songs stick in my head and rattle around much too long? Why do some pieces of music make me leap to my feet and make me move to the beat? Why do the “blues” make me feel good one time and sad another?

Everyone of us is different and yet most of us admit that life would not be nearly as bright without some form of music… Take time to bask in and celebrate the music of your life!

Though I am not a musician, I would love to hear about your moments of musical appreciation and you can contact me through the Stress Education Center’s website at www.dstress.com.