Instant Memory Makers

Have you ever noticed how every culture on every continent expresses some range of emotions through music? No matter your personal preference, I think we can all agree that music can be inspirational, romantic, or even get you pumped up! Music drills into our minds and stays there. How many times have you caught yourself thinking about a catchy song you’d heard much earlier in the day? That’s because the beat, the words, the melody – something was “catchy” to you and stirred an emotion that maybe you weren’t even aware of at the time. I often hear a particular song and it reminds me of an event or certain time in my life. I like to think of these songs as instant memory makers – they make me smile or laugh.

We all use music in some way. We may have a playlist special for the gym to keep us moving, a well worn CD that’s been played so many times it’s a marvel that it hasn’t worn out or in the least, a favorite radio station we listen to while commuting. In our household, music is on most of the time, and it’s not uncommon to stop what we’re doing and dance – all of us, dog included. We tango, two-step, waltz, laugh and act silly…. It’s empowering!

All music is a manifestation of someone’s inspiration. In other words, you may not like it but someone, somewhere does! Try to open your mind to new music and what it may inspire in YOU. Some music you may not even be able to understand the words, but maybe the beat is catchy or the melody makes you smile and tap your toes. You might not become their number one fan, but maybe you’ve found a new inspiration. Some music might make you feel hostile, so change it… but at least you’ve given it a try. Wasn’t it our parents that used to nag us about “trying something once”? Or how about, “if you don’t try it, how do you know you don’t like it”?

Here’s another homework assignment. Try to listen to 5 songs each day that you might have never considered listening to. Your goal is to find a couple new songs that make you feel like you want to get up and take life by the horns! Whether it’s the message or the feeling it inspires in you… download it, turn it up and LIVE!

We’ve put an MP3 player in the right sidebar to make this assignment as painless as possible. If you prefer to surf in your own “tunes” store, here are 6 songs from different genres that clicked with me to get you started. Please add your favorite songs to this blog so we can all experience them!

“Say Hey” by Michael Franti & Spearhead

“Better in Time” by Leona Lewis

“Never Gonna Be Alone” by Nickelback

“Haven’t Met You Yet” by Michael Buble

“Fireflies” by Owl City

And our family’s favorite “drop everything and dance” tune:

“Gettin’ You Home” by Chris Young