I love music. I love the way it makes me feel. I love the way it settles into the nooks and crannies of my soul and lodges there. I love the connection it makes with people and places and experiences.
My love of music was instilled in me from parents who also love music. Singing to the radio. Spinning vinyl 45’s. Dancing in the living room as a tape whirled in the stereo. Music permeated my childhood. Little wonder my first job was working at a music store.
One of the things I love most about music is its ability to be shared.
My folks shared their favorites with me as I now share with my own children. I frequently ask friends, “What are you listening to?” I request they send me links to music that speaks to them and many do.
This is how I discovered Mumford and Sons (new song is out by the way). Josh Garrels (ridiculously good). Cage the Elephant. Ray LaMontagne. Naïve Thieves. The Black Keys. Dry the River. Florence + The Machine. And so many more.
As I was transitioning from one crazy adventure in my life to another, a friend shared a fun CD with me. The artist…No More Kings.
Their first album, an eclectic mix to say the least, provided the soundtrack for some great sing-at-the-top-of-your-lungs-with-the-windows-down drives. Now my son is carrying around my iPod belting out these sometimes campy, sometimes stirring, always wonderful songs.
Rediscovering this album has been almost as delightful as hearing it the first time.
One particular lyric has been rolling around in my brain…
What scares me most of all is me
And still I want not to be scared
When I learn to walk through walls
And swim in the air
I will be scared of me no longer
This so perfectly captures the angst and hope that is life. At least as I’m experiencing it.
Afraid of what I’m capable of and yearning for a time when fear is replaced with peace. When my inclinations to speak harshly, to be easily angered, to be filled with pride; are replaced with kindness and gentleness and self-control. When I become love.
After all, “perfect love drives out fear”. (1 John 4:18)
So what music are you listening to? What song(s) provides the soundtrack for your life? Share it/them here.
And friends, as we listen to each other’s music, may we grow closer together. May we find a common place where love lives and shapes us. May we share this gift with the world.
Life is better together,
Shawn
Big Rubber Band Ball 