John Denver’s “Sunshine” played on a CD I was listening to–yes, I still listen to CDs–and in my mind, I was immediately transported to the streams of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where our family spent countless camping trips, jumping from rock to rock down its cold, clear, wondrous water. Denver somehow knew exactly how I felt in the mountains; maybe he felt the same way.
It always takes me by surprise. I hear a song from a faraway time, and the immediacy of my transportation to the moment when the song became a part of my life both excites and saddens me. Reliving memorable moments, at least the happy ones, bring a quiet joy, an almost stillness, yet the same repose reminds me of their fleeting glances. These times conjure my youth, an experience, or the company of someone who is no longer alive. I think it’s the realism created in my mind that stops me in my tracks; I can almost imagine still being there.
Music has such a hold throughout our lives. In grade school, the Beatles, Smoky Robinson, Simon & Garfunkel, Tammy Wynette, and, believe it or not, Don Ho were favorites. By the eighth grade, Pink Floyd, Blondie, Michael Jackson, and Queen were making my list, and the musical journey continues until today. Speaking of Journey, Steve will always be a favorite❤️
It’s the music that takes us back to occasions that we’d be happy to visit from time to time, or songs that summon unbidden emotions that leave us transfixed. “A Bridge Over Troubled Water,” while beautiful, forever recollects a drowning and near drowning at a school outing. “Both Sides Now,” by Joni Mitchell, makes me cry. “I Was Made For Loving You,” by Kiss, brings to mind my thirteen-year-old exposure to a dance while camping, and the realization that boys were kind of interesting. “Thunder” will endlessly call forth my and Sam’s drive through Ireland. Going through music from an early age to now presents moments of elation, insecurity, uncertainty, and, of course, joy. It’s a gift, really; the ability to travel back in time by listening to a song.
Still, the alternate reality created by hearing an old song will forever test my senses. I completely understand how those much older than me reminisce through their music; they have more practice and material. So, if you ever find me staring into space while listening to an older song, I’m probably in a good place.
Quote of the Day:
“I see my life in terms of music.” Albert Einstein
Designs on Life 