Nox Amicus

At 2:24am last Friday, April 1, the moon was new again.

The focus during the last cycle was Comfort – something that was much needed in light of my contracting Covid and the trials that the prior cycle’s focus on Resilience had brought. Finding Comfort has often been challenging for me, as the most Comfort I usually feel is when I retreat into my own worlds. While that can feel comfortable – I would hesitate to say it brings actual Comfort.

Places that have historically brought me Comfort have been times I’d been playing with a band, and the moments that really bring me the most joy have been singing in Harmony. Thirty years ago when my musical journey began, I could never find harmonies in songs on my own – I felt it was some odd alchemy that vocalists could just find a 3rd or a 5th in a scale and weave counter-melodies and harmonies. That was magic to me. It wasn’t really until about 3-4 years ago in this band that something finally clicked and I found myself able to find my own parts. I’m still not proficient, but I’m not embarrassed anymore.

Before our last gig on April 2nd, it was suggested that we really need to work on our harmonies. Listening back to that night I agree – there are things that we’ll hear that a general audience might not – but Harmony takes effort and attention, and if we are holding ourselves too tightly – if there is too much tension or reservation – the beauty cannot flow as easily. Learning to relax, learning to listen, learning to find our place as others work to find theirs. The analogy – and the theme – unfolds naturally.

Six years ago I was reminded of the sweetness and simple joy in Harmony when I heard this cycle’s song for the first time. It was Spring of 2016 and The Monkees had just released “Good Times!” Hearing Mike and Micky sing reminded me of all their songs I loved when I was younger, and why I loved them. I credit “Me & Magdalena” for being one of the sparks that launched me on my current journey.

I want to take some time this cycle to listen carefully to my own voice – and find closer and more relaxed Harmony with the voices around me.