Music
Ξ January 15th, 2008 | → 1 Comments | ∇ General thoughts and ideas |
I think of this topic because of the music I’m listening to at the moment.
It’s amazing to me how consistently each society and culture embraces music in whatever form it takes. On an individual level, each person seems to have their preferences. Preferences, that is, that seem to change relatively often. Not long ago, I returned home from a 2 year mission in Texas. While there, I and many other missionaries would focus on inspirational music- often instrumental. This, of course, was according to the rules; the kinds of music that could be at all distracting from the Spirit was either discouraged or outruled. Some might say that this kind of rule is too much, that it is too limiting.
Returning home, I found that my preferred music had changed somewhat. This is what brings me to this topic most of all; I didn’t change interest because I had been surrounded by a different type of music. It was because of the kind of music it was. I found immediately that certain styles- yes, styles- were distracting to me, that, regardless of the listener, they pull attention to themselves in a very powerful way. Such can be the power of music. Instead of this, I preferred my own undistracted thoughts- accompanied by good music. I had realized how music can either build upon or stiffle inspired thoughts, hopes, and plans. Hence, my fascination with music in general. It really is a big part of humanity.
Speaking of deep or inspiring music, this is among my favorite compilations of such: http://willowrise.com/music.htm