Saturday, July 2, 2011

when words prevent hearing

Tonight is one of those nights where I think a lot. It started during a conversation with a friend from home (the one from the previous post). After talking for a bit, we were both going to drive to a third mutual friend's house to hang out.

On the way there, I was deep in thought about the conversation. I put my ipod on shuffle, hoping to hear a song that would refocus my mind and let me think clearly. A song started playing quietly, and although I didn't recognize it nor hear any words, it calmed me. The music filled my car as I drove through the silent night, and provided a soothing retreat for my mind where I could think. Although the song has no lyrics, it spoke to me in ways that no other song has been able to. It was perfect for that moment.

Too often we are caught up with what is being said. We focus so much on what other's tell us, we don't have time to sit back and listen to the music of the world that frames all of these words. There is a distinct rhythm and melody to our lives. If we let the words and lyrics mask the melody, then we lose sight of the essence of the beauty. Words are tossed around too carelessly and they have little meaning when little thought is put into them. Yet when a beautifully crafted melody is played, each note meticulously woven into a perfect blend of harmony, it is there that we see the perfect union of the music. It is there that we see the true existence of our lives, stripped of the careless layers of words and definitions that constantly weigh us down.

This song reminded me that words are not as important as what is behind the words. It spoke directly to my soul, without having to be filtered in the brain. I am glad that the author's didn't try to write lyrics, but let my heart feel the emotion of the song, and put my own "lyrics" to it.

After the drive, I checked my ipod and found out the song was "Healed," by Shane and Shane. I am reminded that an artist's offering of worship let my soul feel rest. I hope to someday create art that speaks to others, without having to say a word.