M'iTunes

I first became aware of the emotional impact music has on me when that Bobby McFerrin song, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” was popular. If I heard it on the radio on my way to work, I’d walk into the office with a bounce in my step, a smile on my face, and the song humming through my head.

Music connects me with times and places. For Mothers’ Day, my son sent me a special CD mix of songs that includes the closest thing we have to a “family theme song” – “New Attitude” from the Beverly Hills Cops soundtrack. That song takes us back to a summer when the boys and I drove from Maryland to Atlanta to visit my folks. While there, Dad recorded the Beverly Hills Cops soundtrack to a cassette for us to listen to on the long drive home. I think it might have saved my sanity and our lives. When the boys got restless and began annoying each other (“Stop touching me….Mom, he’s getting on my side…Mom, he took my…” and so on), I’d put on that song and crank up the volume. I’d warn the boys that if they didn’t get a “new attitude” right quick, Mom would turn into a monster (and they knew what that meant). Sometimes this was accompanied by a bribe – ice cream at the next McDonalds.

The new CD has an eclectic mix of other tunes that are less connected to the past but are quickly taking on meaning in the present. Some are sing-along – “Down to the River to Pray.” Some are dance-along – “If I had a Hammer.” Some are inspiring – “Take my Hand.” Some are just good listening, and I listen over and over in the car and on my iPod. This and other music CDs in my play list are comforting, invigorating, connect me to others, and keep me centered in my faith.

All this makes me wonder how music could enhance Mom’s life at this time. The music channels on her TV are limited. Perhaps it’s time to get a CD player and play some personal and meaningful selections.

Sue