When I experience great music, it is compelling. It may be one’s preferred style. I am not sure how to describe what is required. I do know that I find examples in jazz, pop, country, and many other genres. It is as if the combination of music, lyrics, and delivery come together in a way that touches your heart and mind.
As the events of this week unfolded, good, difficult, challenging, and mundane, I found myself going back to a song that describes the willingness to trust. For me, it is compelling. On any level – from the lyrics to the rising anthem nature of the musical arrangement, to the wonderful voice of the artist that sang the original release – I am touched from the inside out.
I have not listened to this particular song for some time. It is often forgotten among the 17,000+ songs in my iTunes library on my notebook. I am not sure what drew me back to it recently. My response to this unseen Force is to quietly say the words “thank-you.” You direction touched me in ways I did not know I needed. I am reminded how invasive truth can be.
The reminder also triggered a fresh realization that when someone does not accept an idea it may be more than personal preference. Another reason could be that the idea is not truth filled. I am not suggestion that truth is always overwhelming. I am observing that when something is compelling, it creates openness in your heart and mind to more. It is as if we cannot help ourselves.
One writer made a note of a compelling truth in his life. “The life-maps of God are right, showing the way to joy. The directions of God are plain and easy on the eyes.” (Psalm 19.8)
I am left with uncomfortable questions. Am I willing to test the truth quotient of my ideas and thoughts? Will I let go of tradition to seek truth? Is there something I am not willing to examine? Today I will find part of the answer.
