Singing Your Song

I recently went on a Backroads bike trip in Ireland which has stayed with me ever since. The trip, like all Backroads adventures, combined physical activity, beautiful scenery, and cultural exposure. We were taught about Irish history and given the chance to experience the beer (not me) and music that plays such a part in its culture today. During a musical performance in a pub, the leader described how Ireland navigated through its many struggles. At one point, when things were particularly bleak, Ireland stopped using its language and singing its music.

I celebrated the country making it through such a dark period as the group sang a quintessential Irish ballad, but, as they played, I thought about the meaning of their struggle in my own life. I thought about the dark times when I stopped using my language and singing my own music. I don’t think I’m unique, but in the days since I’ve thought about the importance of speaking and singing what is uniquely ours.

I believe in my soul that each of us was uniquely and wonderfully created. I once thought we were born for a specific purpose, but now think our only purpose is to be who we were created to be – to speak and sing our unique language and song. Where we speak or sing will vary, and the opportunities will be countless, but the sacred opportunity to bring our voice into our daily lives is singular.

I’m embarrassed by the times I’ve spoken the language of those around me and sang songs that were not mine. to sing. I sometimes still do, I’m sad to admit, but the Irish story helped awaken me to the chance I have today to find my song again and sing it wherever I go.

How about you?