I’m an audio learner. Sounds paint pictures in my mind and crystalize my thoughts. Often, I close my eyes and just listen. Even the sounds of silence can be meaningful. Therefore, it’s no big surprise to anyone who knows this about me that I love music of all kinds.
Several years ago while attending a speaker’s presentation with a friend, I had the opportunity to meet singer-songwriter Jana Stanfield. Many of you may be familiar with her upbeat, positive music and thought-provoking, reflective lyrics. I was particularly looking forward to listening to her message. It was a small gathering and I had the opportunity to meet her briefly. We connected by chance and formed a precious friendship. With her permission, I’m starting our 2021 series of blogs paraphrasing lyrics of one of her best-known songs: “Let the Change Begin.”
The insight and understanding that I’ve gained from that song through the years has been incredible. Even more so this year, its message of hope echoes quietly in my head. The insights and understanding of the time in which we have found ourselves recently ring crystal-clear. The tempo of the song lends itself powerfully to the lyrics. It starts slowly, deliberately, and contemplatively and builds to an upbeat crescendo of happiness.
- Lesson 1 – I don’t have the power to change the world.
- Lesson 2 (in spite of Lesson 1) – It’s not helpful to sit on the couch and mope and moan about these circumstances. I must begin.
- Lesson 3 – Be flexible. Bend like a willow, and don’t be so rigid that you snap and break. Find a way.
- Lesson 4 – Be patient, courageous, determined and focused.
- Lesson 5 – I have the strength to be the change that I wish to see.
During the many changes in 2020, I played this song often to help me uplift my spirit. In the process, I gradually became stronger, embraced new technologies, connected in fresh ways, redefined essentials and reconnected with my own inner happiness. This fresh new year is a true time of celebration. I’m excited and ready to make the most of each day. I look forward to joining you on an amazing journey.
I Care, Barb
By Janice Doppler January 23, 2021
Perfect timing. Change beginning on so many levels . . . .
By Jo Cull January 21, 2021
Thank you Barb for the reminder. A long time ago you sent an email to all Leaders at that time with a link to this song included. I listened to that song on many occasions as I went through my weight loss journey and it was so helpful. I completely forgotten about this song and it’s one that I need and will be listening to once again. Thank you so much for the reminder.
By Rosie Treadway January 20, 2021
This list of lessons need to be on a magnet for my refrigerator. Very inspiring. When I gain and I’m down and out my husband says why don’t you just quit. I tell him I love Tops and my friends there. Thanks for sharing.
By Lisa G Richardson January 19, 2021
Thank you Barb. I’m letting the change begin from deep within me. I’m being the change that I would like to see. I listened to this song in the still of the night. I’ll sleep well tonight as I appreciate what is…..
By Regina Barrett (Maryland) January 19, 2021
Happy New Year Barb! Thanks for sharing and I am going to look it up during my meditation and LISTEN to the words. Everytime my family or TOPS members hear THE CLIMB, they always say that is my song. Simply because I share it so much. I am sure I will be sharing “Let the Change Begin”. I love music of all kinds to listen and move to. I appreciate all of your motivation. Be safe.
By Jeannie Briney January 19, 2021
Thanks Barb! Love the song and the message. My mind is forming new ideas for the upcoming zoom or meetings with other Tops members!
Turkey uplifting..xo
By Jeannie Briney January 19, 2021
Very uplifting
By Janet Long January 18, 2021
Oh, how wonderful to sing a song to up lift our spirits. I love music and to sing songs with Tops is great. Thanks for sharing. With love.
By Kay Cooper January 18, 2021
Thanks
By Gina January 18, 2021
Awesome message and so so true. Love a quiet house with music. Thanks for sharing❤️
By Sylvia Duncan January 18, 2021
Thank you for sharing this, Barb. I played it on YouTube. I already see how this can apply to our daily lives as TOPS and KOPS members.