Over the last two weeks at my nursing facility, long-term care, and senior support music therapy groups we’ve created music based on the theme of Memorial Day. My primary goal with this theme was to give people the opportunity and supportive space to remember, grieve, and share openly. I think often times the true focus of Memorial Day gets passed over quickly to the picnics, parties, and summer kick-offs; especially for my generation who grew up for the most part with minimal war/military action.
What happened in these groups amazed me.
The first thing I did was offer anyone who could hold/wanted to hold a small American Flag. The act of holding and looking at the flag was an aesthetic, art-full experience for my clients as they admired the beauty and began really remembering what the flag symbolizes for them.
The second experience shows the power of group music experiences, especially brought in a way that honor emotions and feelings (as by a music therapist). I lead the singing of the Star Spangled Banner, acapella, while we all waved our flags. Through this experience, heads raised, eyes opened, tears flowed, smiles shined, social engagement happened, and connections were made. It was BEAUTIFUL.
It really got me thinking–how often do my clients living in long term care or living more isolated really get to experience this song–our National Anthem–in a way that provides tribute to community, country, and their experiences of World War II, The Korean War, and the Vietnam War? Probably not often. It was such an honor to share this experience with them; to share the music that sparks so much emotion, pride, memories, grief, and glory.
And then to hear the stories!! Stories of distinct memories of seeing their brother walk up the lane to come home after the war, running to him and falling into hug him because they finally knew he was alive; a story of saying goodbye to their brother, or uncle, or father, only to never see him again.
“we won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me”– (Lee Greenwood, God Bless the USA)
These are the stories that mean something—that need to be remembered, shared, and honored. I LOVE that the music brought this out, and my clients were comfortable to share and explore these deep, mostly sad, feelings.
So to everyone, allow yourself to take time to remember those who have died before us in honor of our country, freedom, and pride of the USA.
