Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.
~ Red Auerbach
I've been reminded recently of the power music has in my life. I've always loved music (seriously, who doesn't?) and have used it many times in my life to influence my mood. It can get you excited, like when you are at a hockey match and they play "We Will Rock You" by Queen over the loudspeakers. It can make you weep like whenever I hear "Where've You Been" by Kathy Mattea. Music can change my mood in an instant and this has been a blessing lately.
I'm grateful for the power of music to sooth and calm my soul. A few weeks ago I found myself at work and (as is all too typical lately) getting worked up over something my boss was saying. I always have my iPod with me and as I scanned through the song listing looking for something to help me control my emotions I came across a Mormon Tabernacle Choir CD called "Peace Like a River" and decided that since the word "peace" was in the title, it might fit the bill for what I was in need of right at that moment. I'm amazed how within seconds of the first song starting I felt myself relaxing and all the agitated feelings evaporating. Peace flowed through my entire body. My shoulders relaxed and the tears welling up in my eyes went away. As the words and music washed over me I felt as though I were a rock in a river having my rough edges softened by the flow of voices in harmony.
What a blessing that CD was to me at that moment!
Although I've grown up hearing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, I don't think I've ever appreciated them until this experience. I realized I only had 2 CDs so that following weekend, I made a special trip to the LDS bookstore to stock up on some more music. I've been starting most mornings at work listening to them. It has been a great way to start off the day and the influence of that soothing music lasts throughout the day.
The power of music to integrate and cure... is quite fundamental. It is the profoundest nonchemical medication.
- Oliver Sacks
What music do you find soothing or helpful in times of distress? I'd like to know!
