a balm for the times

Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest. Heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul. (unknown origin)

No matter what is happening in the world, music is always there for you. I received a lovely email from one of you who wrote, “Listening to beautiful music also a lovely balm.” Yes, I so agree — music is a soothing balm to troubled times.

While the entire population of Italy has been in lockdown, Italian residents have joined together to sing from their balconies. Sometimes it’s their national anthem and others sing or play their instruments purely to lift everyone’s spirits. When I saw the first videos coming out, it absolutely warmed my heart. We used to live in an Italian neighbourhood when I was a young girl and even lived in the basement suite of an Italian household for a time. The families in that neighbourhood were always so social and full of gaiety. Families would gather and talk — talk loudly. And sing. The men, especially, would break out in Italian songs. Even in my youthful mind, I remember thinking what a close and comforting community they were. I loved them then and I love them now.

“Music is the social act of communication among people, a gesture of friendship, the strongest there is.” — said Malcolm Arnold.

During this pandemic I hope we all remember to look out for each other and that we take advantage of this time to listen to and absorb some beautiful music.

If Sarper Duman and his heartwarming love of cats — and music — don’t give you a lift, please share with me what lifts your heart.

 

and here again is Sarper, this time playing Interstellar while the cats rest.

 

Okay, if you aren’t into cats and music, how about the most heavenly duo of voices. This is the definition of balm …

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UPDATE:

I actually wrote this post on the weekend but held it back intending to post it next Monday. Since things are moving so quickly, I’m posting it now with a short addition. I truly have been taking my advice about listening to more music. Here’s what I wrote on Facebook yesterday, “Since I’ve been spending more time getting absorbed in good music, this morning I actually awoke with Andrea Bocelli’s “Con te Partiro” stirring within my mind (one of my absolute favourite songs that I’ve been listening to over and over).”

I really did wake up with that song playing in my mind. Now how restful and perfect is that?

Be smart. Self-isolate (or at least practice personal-distancing). Be positive. Help others.