“A Song a Day Keeps the Blues Away” — Perhaps this should be the tag line. OMS has definitely been an aid to me.
What started as a bit of a whimsical idea has turned into a daily song performance every weekday for the last thirteen weeks. I never quite “got” why I would do this initially. I knew it felt right to do it – and I always follow my heart and gut. But initially, I couldn’t quite see the benefit.
Now on Day 3 of my thirteenth week, I get it. It has become a beautiful way to connect with the few people that are up and who choose to connect with me in this way at this time. It has also taken me on a little adventure, mapping the songs and music that has helped me journey towards the person I find myself to be today. I have loved revisiting jazz standards and other songs that I used to sing many years ago when I began singing. Thinking about all the people who might have introduced these songs to me or the artists from whom I learned as I was singing these songs. All the influences I had which have helped form me. Certainly, these past weeks have been a training ground for me – pushing myself beyond my boundaries and out of my comfort zone. I might decide to play the guitar, accompanying myself on a song that I haven’t played before, or at all. And singing first thing in the morning having not seen or said a peep to anyone – not sung or hummed a note – can be a challenge. I am gently warming-up my vocal engine in the process of delivering the song. But I think, more than anything, I am realising it is becoming a training ground for an aspect of me that has only really begun to venture out from behind the shadows since I started the OMS series. My inner storyteller. The revelation of little anecdotes and tales with maybe a drop-or-two of insight or wisdom that I have gathered from reading or listening to wise teachers, gurus and others, or through doing my own daily spiritual practice. I have discovered that I really love connecting with people in this way. And through the mode of song.
No idea how long I will continue on this One Morning Song path. I have learned pretty well by now not to overthink or overly plan anything. So we will see. But OMS has become a really lovely feature in my day. A little bit of fun and a light bit of daily challenge. While the sessions continue, you are welcome to join me anytime. I go live on Facebook at 0800 GMT each morning of the week, though I rest at weekends. And all the previous week’s recordings remain to be viewed at a time that might better suit you.
Click here to join me on my Facebook Page.
Tagged: 2021, connected, facebook, inspiration, inspire, loneliness, melissa james, mental health, mindfulness, sing4sane, singing, songwriter, togetherness, virtual