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My family and I know our way around our karaoke machine like the back of our hands. But, no matter how many times we flip through the song book or click through the different artists, we always find ourselves singing the same songs. Part of the reason is because we’ve mastered the songs and we can count on getting a high score. The other reason is our personal connection to the song and to the story it tells. I’ve Never Been to Me by Charlene is one song in particular that my mom and aunt always love to sing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhQWND9jKDA
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The song is about a woman who has been immersed in luxuries all her life. She is married and well-traveled, but not truly happy. The places she has been are merely places she runs off to to get away from her life. Even with the desirable lifestyle, she is lonely during her desperate search for true freedom. The singer, Charlene, sings as if she is directly communicating her story to the listeners. In contrast to her soothing voice, she is warning us to not have the same regrets she did. If we are to live our lives “the right way”, the actions we take and decisions we make must be done so in our own volition.
Knowing the stresses school, friends, family, relationships, and extracurricular activities can have on us, we can relate to this song immensely. We are often so caught up in the whirlwind of due dates, fights, wins, and losses that we forget to breathe. This is dangerous as it could lead to many sleepless nights and lack of concentration and dedication to the things and people we love.
“I’ve no doubt you dream about the things you’ll never do.”
In order to be one with ourselves, it is best to make realistic goals and stick to them. Although there is no problem with dreaming big, going that route too often could set very high expectations that constantly make us struggle. When this happens, we will become frustrated and it will negatively affect how we think about ourselves and how we act towards others. Start small as these are easier to branch out from.
“I ran out of places and friendly faces because I had to be free.”
There are definitely days where the comfort of our friends, family or own bed won’t help us be at peace. On these occasions, we need a place to go to that will quiet our restless minds, even for just a little while. I suggest visiting The Quiet Place or The Dawn Room to fill that void that is longing for serenity. Even dedicating 5 minutes to yourself will make a world of a difference. So get your earphones, plug them to your computer or phone, and don’t be afraid. Know that It Will Be Okay.
“I never knew I’d be bitter from the sweet.”
Even with our hobbies, passions, and firm mindsets, it gets difficult to maintain a happy-go-lucky relationship with them. Our dedication to what we do is so powerful that it can negatively consume us. As a result, they are no longer hobbies, passions or mindsets. They are obsessions.
The things we love to do should be done simply because we love to do them.
Our favorite pastimes should give us the freedom of freedom. It should take a heavy weight off our shoulders. If it is taking an after-school nap, listening to music, drinking tea, going for a walk or doing yoga that keeps you happy, maintain it!
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With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is easy to lose who we are amidst our work and responsibilities. But no matter how busy and hectic our lives get, there will always be time to dedicate to ourselves. With the right amount of work and play, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.
“This is what you must be like. Grow wherever life puts you down.” – Ben Okri
Best wishes,
Kandace 🙂