Affirmation

I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge -- myth is more potent than history -- dreams are more powerful than facts -- hope always triumphs over experience -- laughter is the cure for grief -- love is stronger than death. ~ Robert Fulghum

While in church yesterday, I had somewhat of a realization. I realized while singing, that I was not only in worship but in affirmation. (Some of you reading are thinking, “well...duh!” but I had never put it into that framework before.) An affirmation is an action or declaration a person may make in relation to conscience. Many of us daily will constantly make affirmations to ourself. Most of them are unconscious while some have purpose, either way they continue to affirm the things we believe - whether we want to or not.

Among other things, music does that for us. Affirms our beliefs, our ideas and our feelings on a certain topic. The reason certain lyrics speak to me in worship is the same reason others will be welcoming when I’m experiencing a broken heart. Think about it, if only for a moment, music is one of the few mediums that can change our mood in a matter of moments, regardless of our activity. Think about the music you listen to when you’re running, or doing something active, or when you’re trying to stay awake when you find yourself driving a car late at night. Now think about the music you listen too during dinner, or winding down, studying, reading, or perhaps when you’re sad or upset. The music will reaffirm a feeling we desire to feel. Now you’re thinking who wants to feel sad, why would we want to revisit that particular state of being? Maybe you’re recovering from some great love affair, maybe you’re remembering a lost friend or family member, maybe the song reminds you of an old pet. Listening to the song may bring some longing, but it also reaffirms that the time spent with that person was one worth remembering. A moment yesterday where time vested was worth the sadness you may be experiencing today.

So what does this mean for me? It means that I must create a thicker filter. Not to keep myself from experiencing sadness, but one that ensures growth, one that leads to positive experience. I’m not just referring to music and the songs I listen to, but also the environment I find myself spending my time. If our thoughts have an unconscious impact upon our lives, I want to ensure that mine will be productive and positive. Today I must take steps that will promote the growth God has in store for me.