One Day at a time, a daily reflection

by surprisedbyjoy@yahoo.com

December 2

Walk with the wise

"One who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm." Proverbs 13:20

Recently I missed my ferry while commuting into the Seattle area for a church service. When I caught the next boat, a lovely experience of "soma" awareness was waiting for all ferry riders. A local harpist from a neighboring town was playing in the commuters sitting area, with some of his CD’s and tapes for sale. He was smiling like a Buddha as he played music on a Celtic harp. It was a magic "soma" moment of pleasure and I found myself smiling with him, before buying two of his CD’s!

Through the soma experience of sound, he helped me stop, look and listen more deeply in the present moment. He also spoke of his life experiences as he traveled around the world, bringing music to those willing to pause and listen. I realized he was a very wise man experienced in the ways of people.

It was a great day to be alive—yes; I missed the earlier ferry, but was blessed with a free concert that brought tears of happiness to my eyes. His music was incredibly beautiful in the midst of noisy, excited ferry riders in eager anticipation of their day in Seattle. I found myself a little wiser from that experience. The day became an adventure and I learned something about being in the present moment through this wise ferry musician.

Wisdom comes in many forms. Consider listening to music that speaks to your soul. Breathe. Sit. Feel. Listen. Relax. St. Augustine noted that singing helps us pray twice. Music can be prayer.

Our Proverb today reminds us that wisdom grows in the company of wise people. We need the wisdom of music to grow in our own wisdom. A life without music is foolish indeed.

Prayer: God, bless us with wisdom music that speaks to our souls. Amen.