Explore.Dream.Rest.
A Journey in Music Therapy
This week’s #musictherapybloggerchallenge topic is to blog about a quote that is meaningful to me. This quote from T.S. Elliot was first introduced to me at a music therapy training (The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery & Music). It is a quote that really makes me think-I’m still not even sure what it means–but I think that’s the point!
Over the years, this quote has taken on several meanings depending on where I was in life. When I first learned it, I was just beginning my Masters program at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. I was focused on ME. My school, my career, and my own spiritual journey. At this point in my life, I felt for the first time I was staying true to myself. BEING me. FOR me and no one else. I was on an explorative journey of my soul, and enjoying the ride.
As I advanced into my career in hospice work, life took on a whole new meaning. Surrounded by death and dying each day opened my mind to new patterns of thinking. I had some patients who were very settled with their impending death, and some who were so anxious you could feel their heart racing just being around them. At this point, I was focused on RELATIONSHIPS in my life. Hearing patients reminisce, I started to understand more about how life is a journey with others coming in and out of the ride, but one thing that stays connected, stays grounded, is the relationship with your self and your beliefs. As I was focused on a wedding and then starting a family, the new meaning of this quote reminded me to continue to stay true to myself–but keep exploring and dreaming with others, as people are what bring more scenery on the journey.
For me now, I am still exploring, still dreaming, still trying to figure out what to do, where to go, and how to remain true to myself as LIFE happens.
LIFE is a husband, two kids, a thriving business, friendships, faith, fun, and work. This quote serves as a reminder to REST-take a step back, feel my feet on the ground, take a deep breath, and honor myself. Know myself. And allow myself to continue the journey of a beautiful life without a timeline.
Like I said in the beginning, I’m still not sure I know what this quote means, but I do believe that is the point. Where have I started? Where will my journey take me? Am I comfortable with all of these unknowns? What else can I learn about myself?
I’m excited about this journey.
Explore.Dream.Rest.
