By Dennis Merritt Jones, DD
Music calls us home. It reminds us that beyond all the apparent differences we seem to have, we all come from the same place — our unity in spirit.
When Mac Davis penned the lyrics for his 1970s classic pop song, “I Believe in Music,” he captured a sentiment that resonates deeply with musicians and music lovers alike. This sentiment has held true through the ages and continues to inspire us today: music has the power to unify humanity. It transcends barriers like culture, language, religion, gender, age, color, and politics, allowing us to experience our shared humanity. When we move beyond these labels, our differences dissolve into the oneness from which we all originate.
How does music wield such extraordinary influence? It speaks to the heart, not just the head. While music has a mathematical structure that engages both the left and right brain, its true impact lies in its ability to touch the heart and soul. For most of us, music is not merely an intellectual exercise; it’s an emotional journey that connects us with others. As Harold Payne, a singer-songwriter and friend, accurately puts it, “Music speaks louder than words.”
From the dawn of humanity, when our ancestors first discovered music by beating sticks on hollow logs, music has been the outward manifestation of an inner urge to express life. The word “express” means to press out. When music erupts from within us, it embodies the soul’s desire to “be.” When music becomes a shared experience, it connects souls, blending their energies in remarkable ways. Musicians, when they play together, create something greater than themselves, achieving a divine harmony that transcends individual existence. Some of the most intense, blissful experiences occur in these shared musical moments.
Music has an intrinsic calling that draws us back to a sense of unity, reminding us that despite our apparent differences, we all share a common origin. This unity in spirit underscores the power and significance of music. Whether we are creating music or just enjoying it, we come together to celebrate, co-create, and express joy. Music empowers us to honor our unique individual expressions while embracing our collective oneness.
Imagine a world devoid of music. The absence of this universal language would strip much of the joy and unity from our lives. The next time we engage with any form of music – be it through a device, at a concert, or in a movie – we should take a moment to appreciate its impact and thank the musicians who bring this magic into our lives.
Can music heal the world’s myriad problems? While it might not provide a direct solution to every issue, music has the remarkable ability to help us “remember to remember” our interconnectedness – that there is really only One of us here. When we internalize this connection, we treat one another with greater kindness, generosity, compassion, and respect. Music can open the doors of our hearts, allowing us to see ourselves in others. With this realization, anything becomes possible.
So, turn up your favorite tunes and sing along because the world needs YOUR voice.
Peace, Dennis Merritt Jones, DD