I’m sitting here with a blank page in front of me, not sure what to write. Brian is working on one of the boat’s engines that’s having issues. I’ve just returned from an outing with the singers and musicians at Concordia, and I’m at a loss for words today.

At the outing, we shared some of our favorite music with each other. It was amazing to see how much richness music brings into our lives. We all nodded in agreement when someone mentioned a group or song we had forgotten about.

Over the last decade or so, I’ve become acutely aware of how the lyrics to some old songs no longer align with who I am now. I still love the music, but often find myself turned off by the lyrics.

Maybe I’m a bit of a music snob now, but I truly believe that what I consume matters, including the music I listen to. I’m very conscious of what I am affirming in my life, and there are many things I no longer accept.

To me, music is a form of prayer, an affirmation of who I choose to be and what I want to see or create in the world. Singing old songs that don’t support that has no place in my life today.

You might be thinking, “It’s just music, Elaine.” I understand that perspective; I once held it myself. But now, I deeply understand that everything we consume affects us and the world around us. 

I’m not here to tell you what to listen to or not. I’m just inviting you to be curious about what you consume and what you are affirming when you do.

With love,

Curious…here’s the list I shared today. You can find them all on Spotify or YouTube.

• Fia – The Art of Letting Go
• Fia – Leaving It All Behind
• Fearless Soul – Through My Eyes
• Carrie Newcomer – I Heard An Owl (this might make you cry…)
• Diana Krall – Feels Like Home
• Denise Rosier – With Your Love, Oh God
• Nickelback – What Are You Waiting For
• Carrie Newcomer – If Not Now
• Shylah Ray Sunshine – Into The Wild

What are your favorites?