“The soul is composed of harmony.” ―Leonardo Da Vinci
“If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.”
― Nikola Tesla
” Rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.” ―Plato
I won’t pretend to understand the complexity of these concepts, but I can tell you that I’m witnessing a change in Vernon whenever he hears live music. I have been trying to keep recorded music that he likes going on behind the beeping and whirring and chatter in the room, but I have noticed that its the real voices and instruments in the room that he responds to. He either becomes very alert or very relaxed, sometimes even to sleep. Either way, there is always an improvement, at least for a little while.
Music has long been known to be a great emotional connector, but I don’t believe Vernon is back in the realm of emotions yet. As is to be expected, he goes in and out of lucidity (and maybe even that is a stretch of a word?) I get frustrated that he doesn’t stay in “my” moment for long, but I know that when he gets one of these little concerts (even simple strumming on a guitar with no particular song in mind) he seems more strongly connected. When he is storming and can’t even give me a responsive squeeze of the shoulders, I am finding that after music, he seems to get physically and mentally focused again. Even if all I get is a squeeze to ” Did you like the music?” Even if it takes all the energy he has, I get that big, quiet “Yes.”
Modern medicine is amazing. I keep hearing how wonderful this hospital is for head trauma. That it is perhaps the most innovative and specialized in the country. How blessed are we for that? But medicine and technology and know-how can only go so far. Music seems to be the mystical balm of vibrations and spirit that helps connect the scrambling dots, that fills the cracks, that reaches the soul.
So…if you are a musician feeling discouraged that what you do isn’t appreciated, that it isn’t seen as art, have you considered it might be medicine? That you might carry healing in your own hands? Let it out, see where it goes…its a mystery, let it be a part of an even greater one that includes others who truly need it.
Here are a some of Vernon’s visiting healers from this week. Perhaps one of you might be moved to help minister to Vernon’s soul/brain connections. I want to make sure he has someone every day. (You know where to reach me.)
This is Vernon’s good friend Chris Owen, who has been bringing his guitar in from the words, “Yes, its okay, Vernon’s brain might be able to handle some music, I suppose.” Thank you, Chris. You have been ministering to his soul this whole time. We love your improvisational flow. Inspired.
The huge-hearted Gary Rea, who turned the room into a corner of heaven. Notice how the nurse couldn’t bring herself to close the door all the way. The entire ward wanted to get a bit of the music-magic.
My new friend, Donna, one of my mom’s printmaking students, has a passion for music-therapy and wow, what a gift to have her bring her beautiful harp into the room. She even played “Stairway to Heaven.” What a privilege. Thank you, Donna.
This is my dear friend Kirsten, who has a voice Vernon has always likened to an angel. And Chris Lizotte, who I like to think of as “My Own Personal Tom Waites.” Such a cool, loving guy. Words cant express how beautiful their music was for me…and I’m sure for Vernon.
One of my dearest besties in the world, Melissa (another talented musician) sharing a laugh with Dialysis Dave, another Brit, who seems to think he can reach his coma-patient through dry humour. It is possible. Especially with hilarious Melissa in the room. We were laughing so hard that the sliding door had to be closed as there was a trauma patient coming through. It’s like being shushed in a library. heheheh.
World class guitarist and friend of Vernon’s, Marc Ford. Thank you Marc for playing from the heart. Your tears brought healing as much as your music did. Needless to say, we had nurse groupies stuck to the sliding door.
97
one of your better uplifting posts allison. continued hugs and prayers …
Can’t wait for uncle steve and his harmonicas (; this was beautiful. Will post next tues.
Such a blessing for Vernon that he has so many talented and caring friends around him. I love that you are giving special care to his hearing, while his other senses aren’t sharp enough yet. I’ve just been catching up on your last few posts since I’ve been traveling. I so appreciate this website and everyone’s perspective.
May the Lord continue to meet all of your needs according to His riches and glory. It sounds like this is a very huge need and blessing:-)
Dear Allison,
I can only imagine with all the wonderfully gifted artists who love Vernon and want to see him healed and fully recovered, their love and their music must bring a sense of God’s Spirit, Peace and Comfort to Vernon, you and the nurses and people listening in.
I keep recalling the words to Chris Lizotte’s song “Peace in the middle of the storm” for you and Vernon.
And also remember Jesus’s own words and promise, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…” Mathew 11:28-30
God Bless!
Jim
Brings tears to my eyes. Thanks for sharing this with us! If I lived close-by, I would definitely visit, but alas. Keep holding on while we keep praying.
Allison, I’ve been following this journey you are on and praying for you and your loved ones every day. This post touched me so much (as they all have) but I found this one especially magical. Wow, I am in awe of those who can play an instrument and I find myself wishing this was one of my gifts. What a special way to bless and minister to Vernon, and as a nurse I think those nurses and doctors are very lucky and blessed to have that constant stream of musical “therapy” moving through their world each day. May our Lord continue to hold you in the palm of His hand each day as you move through this uncharted territory. Sending our love from Northern California, along with hugs and prayer. We are with you in spirit each day!
amaaaaazing………..
Allison, that is so amazing! Music is indeed a connection to the soul. I have heard studies that research the affect of music played during a woman’s pregnancy–reading, as well and the positive results that show once a child is born and grows. It only makes sense that the same would go for someone who is in a situation like Vernon’s. How wonderful to have so many loving and talented musicians in your life to share their medicine! Much love. ❤️
Oh Allison. I think about you and your family all the time. This post really said something to me… I spent a couple of nights in the hospital with Lauren before she died. Those long terrifying nights were surreal, and I didn’t know what to say or do. So I told her stories, played music for her and sang to her. We used to sing together all the time, and I sang songs that were special to us. Sometimes during those songs, her hand would twitch in mine. It was something that her body was doing sporadically, but I wanted to think that it was because she heard me. My friend told me that in her Native American tribe, songs were like prayers. I like to think of those songs as my prayers to Lauren.
It’s been years since I’ve seen you but we are wantoks and I am sending all the love and light I can muster to your family right now. Let the songs continue, and let Vernon heal.
Wontoks. ENOUGH SAID.
Allison,
I am one of Vern’s cousins in PA.
As noted in another comment, all of your entries are enlightening and I can feel the love. This particular one brought me to tears and I praise you and all of Vern’s friends for this special music ministry. When he is fully awake and in your world again, I just know he will remember listening to the music. It is enticing him to wake up for his loved ones.
A most brilliant concept.
Love,
Greg and Pat Reeser