9 February 2015
Stories
There is a sense of déjà vu as bands from prior decades stop by Singapore on their world tours. With groups from the fifties through the sixties, seventies, and eighties scheduling a play date or two in Singapore, the sense of going back to the past to experience the future keep replaying in my mind. It is fun to indulge occasionally, taking in a concert that I could never afford while I was in high school.
As I think of the Righteous Brothers a few months ago and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Yong coming up, I find myself reliving moments I have long forgotten. From the old record player on the first floor of the boy’s dorm at Vincent Hill to cassette players in Singapore and then a full stereo system at Oregon State, I catch myself enjoying the replays. My ability to remember has been enriched by the music past and present. It is as if the melody and words carry me back. The gift frees me to recall emotions, events, and people that the chaos of daily life often blocks. Together they form a rich story that is part of my life’s fabric. I realize that I am stronger and enriched for remembering. I also see the way Hope continually reaches out, trying to nurture and encourage.
As I think of things today, I find myself letting all kinds of music carry me back. From chants to anthems, from acoustic to thumping electric guitars, Life takes me on a tour. In the midst of the joy and the sadness, I find a common thread through it all. In doing so, I find that “I’m telling the story of God Eternal, singing the praises of Jacob’s God.” (Psalm 75.9)
While there are memories where I look back wishing I had taken a different path, I am thankful for the Spirit who is always present. I can see God working in, through, and around my actions. I know Divinity is here now. Yesterday’s stories are what they are. Today’s are still to be written. Carpe diem!
