Today I read an article about Teddy Swims and his ideas about music… He said, “Music isn’t just entertainment, but a form of collective memory that keeps people connected to joy, grief, and everything in between.”
I realized this very idea was the reason that, after my husband’s death, I could not listen to music. It took three years to be able to listen to our favorite tunes. Music was something we listened to every day. Music was so entrenched in our lives that it conjured up sad memories. I couldn’t bear to listen, sing, or think about music.
Ten years later, music can link childhood, teenage, and adult memories. Sometimes with tears, but tears of joy, happy thoughts of Terry and I listening in the living room. Happy memories of dancing around the kitchen with the kids, singing Christmas carols, and karaoke. Any way to incorporate music into life! Once again, I realize that “music isn’t just entertainment, but a form of collective memory that keeps people connected to joy, grief, and everything in between.”
I cherish music. It makes me happy every day. Thanks, Teddy.