Fill Your Life With Beautiful Music
For those who don’t know, Emmanuel hosts a Wednesday noontime concert series, which is designed for people looking for a midweek respite. They provide free music, free food and free fun. It’s a great opportunity to meet new artists, as well as socialize with the community at large. I’ve appreciated the diversity of the many artists, as well as the eclecticism in their repertoires, and I’ve met some wonderful people in the neighborhood, too.
As I made my way through the city, I met those I typically see on a daily basis, and all looked more tired than usual, uninterested in their activities and jobs. I would notice as I walked by the many bus stops, people were complaining about how the weather affected their mood, and of course I overheard them mentioning the physical aspects, an exacerbation in arthritis, back pain, etc.
There are numerous studies supporting how the weather affects our bodies, what is known as human biometeorology. Yes, if you are feeling down and out on a rainy day, remember there is a physiological explanation. I don’t discount these studies and their justifications. I think so many give in too easily. I’m a mind-over-matter person, believing one must seek out other alternatives to conquer their nemesis – the rain or lack of sun.
I finally made it to the concert, and what a concert! It was truly outstanding! I love that feeling of exhaustion after listening to beautiful music. The guest artist, Yida Lin, is an exceptionally talented young man. He was born in Shanghai, China, and began playing the piano at the age of five. He is a graduate from Oberlin Conservatory, and now studies at the Peabody Conservatory pursing his Master of Music.
Yesterday’s repertoire included: Sonate in b minor by Franz Liszt and La valse by Maurice Ravel. Both are powerful pieces, but it was Liszt that spoke to me. The intensity was heart pounding. Lin made it seem so effortless, commanding a standing ovation. The rain kept many away, but there was a lot of love present with our small group, and we will forever remember how he touched our hearts, I know I will. Thank you, Yida Lin for your grand gift of music. The world needs you.
The people I mentioned earlier, the ones affected by the weather – it didn’t take me long to realize, I was just like them. I wasn’t consumed by Mother Nature, but was preoccupied in thought, in need of healing, and that’s what yesterday’s concert did for me.
There are times when we give in too quickly to our aches, pains and worries. Yes, we must feel them – experience them, but we must find alternatives to move beyond them, otherwise we become enablers of our own weaknesses.
We have this innateness to struggle more, when we could be struggling less. We need to find and open that window to our inner calm, releasing those struggles so that we may go the distance in life. I do think some individuals have more of a challenge, but the latter can make you stronger, and definitely more resilient. These are my words of wisdom, and I offer them to you.
Music is a breath of fresh air. Turn on the right music to sooth your weary soul. It can improve your mood, heal your heart and energize your life. The emotional effects of music, as some research studies have proven, can sharpen communication, enhance memory, reduce pain, counteract depression, promote activity, and so much more. Here’s to filling your life with beautiful music. Cheers! – paerki
Related Posts: Midday-Midweek Respite, Play On, Solitude, Joy And Inspiration, Inspired By Strauss
