There isn’t actually a time when music has not been part of my life. I got my very first iPod Christmas of 2009 that was filled with melodies that my siblings knew I’d enjoy. In 2014, I started taking piano lessons and learning classical pieces. They were definitely not my favorites but nonetheless, I am now grateful for the ability to play and learn songs on my own. 

I personally believe that any notes together can become an effective therapy. Researchers from the American Psychological Committee explored how music therapy can improve health issues, especially for babies. It has also been proven that music can soothe pain and alleviate stress. Speaking from experience, music does reduce stress. It lets your mind wander to places that no one else can reach. Just you and peace. Whenever I start feeling overwhelmed by the sorrows of the world, or to be completely simple, whenever I start getting stressed by school, thoughts, or situations at home, I plug in my headphones and put on music at full volume. And just like that, I’m gone. Maybe traveling, maybe in the future, maybe existing in plain calm emptiness, I know for a fact that it’s better than being in the current present. The song genre will really depend on what I’m escaping from. 

Music is full of genres just as humans are full of different emotions. Each emotion has a music genre literally made to stabilize it. Music is hands without fingers that hold you close and console you. It is waves without the sea as mentioned in the poem “Music” by A.S.J Tessimond. Music is used to teach anything created by God that demands understanding. In the Bible, St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians says “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace …” 

Music is the warmth that holds my cheeks in moments of sadness. It dries up my tears whenever it resonates. Walking past a piano is like ignoring a specific calling. Playing it is like transporting my soul to another dimension. Striking guitar chords are like seeing different shades of joyful colors.  I am thankful that I am able to feel all of those diverse sensations because of music! Stay positive and accomplished! God bless!