That Which We Call the Human Experience

I’ll start by saying, I’ve always tried to keep track of those stories and experiences that cause me to stop and observe momentarily. Those elusive moments that feel a little bit deeper than can be captured by a camera or a microphone. Those moments that strike a chord which can only be experienced by the human spirit. I believe those moments, whether grand or small, bright or dark, are the reason we wake to see another day. We should all be driven by the celebration of beauty and excellence in the world. An eternal race to capture a beautiful moment. The photographer and a new perspective. The scientist and a new discovery. The student and a consistent mark. The athlete and a new record. But it isn’t achievement that makes those moments special. It's the reflection they caste of something we can all relate to. Sadness and joy...anger and peace...heartache and bliss...hatred and love.

And what's more, these are all found in the daily experience. In the birth of a child. The sun rise and sun set. The coy smile of stranger. The first time a child walks. The warm embrace of a relative. The last drive with your friends down a nostalgic road before life takes you in different directions. I am reminded of the scene Lois Lowry paints in the Giver when Jonas releases the memories to the community. The film portrays it as a flash of experience in the character’s minds. I like this illustration, because the scenes of human experience are not uncommon, but those small, beautiful moments. I argue that we should not take these for granted, not let them go unnoticed, but instead hold them close as a driving force in each of our lives - perpetuating the beauty and excellence of that which we call the human experience. Let them be that which they are.

Regardless, I am starting this blog because I have always tried to record those moments - quotes, scenes, moments in documentaries, that strike a little deeper and that I don’t want to forget. As I prepare for my role in the fall as wing commander, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on these moments, and how I can share them in a way that strikes that same chord as it did for me as inspiration.

I’ll try to post daily the stories and musings that I have, whether thought of or seen. From scientific research on neuroprosthesis to the most intimate details in art. Inspired by all of the wonderful people I have met and the challenging problems I have faced. Consider this a ‘knowledge reservoir’ of sorts to keep track of all my lessons learned.

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Harnessing Music

This one will probably be a little bit shorter, but I just wanted to talk about a trend I’ve started to observe in my life over the recent semester. First, I need to paint the picture:

• As I sit here and write, I listen to indie folk on an album on Spotify called “My Life is a Movie.”
• Before any interview, I listen to Space Song by Beach House and Helplessness Blues by Fleet Foxes.
• While on a run, I listen to 180 BPM EDM music and remixes.
• While lifting, I listen to 2010s rap hits.
• While researching, I listen to smooth instrumental jazz or French Cafe music.
• While in the car, I listen to a playlist that my friends and I created in high school (I’ll talk about my friends and the special bond we had in the following article - that may need to be a series on second thought)
• I listen to 6 Foot 7 Foot by Lil Wayne to get hyped up.

You probably know where I’m going with this now, but let me provide more details. Since I started this, I’ve noticed that I can use music to harness and move my thoughts exactly when needed. Before an interview, I need to put my brain into a mode of reflection and intellect; I do that by listening to Space Song, which evokes a bit of sadness and pure nostalgia. Breaking it down, the song can do this because of the strong use of reverb and echo, the minor keys and modal progression, the slow tempo, the airy and distant vocals, and the simplicity. Together, these musical paradigms can inspire a corresponding spirit in the listener’s mind.

My mind immediately wonders to memories with friends, moments in my life that I felt have been truly impactful, my family and teachers who taught me so much, my failures and regrets, the many tears I’ve cried, but also the many smiles I’ve worn, the faces of those I love, and the words of those I cherish (I’m listening to it right now haha if you couldn’t notice). But that is precisely the mood and state of mind you need to be in to crush an interview beside yourself.

But then, to hype myself up, I listen to music that embodies just the opposite. A bass that rattles your brain, fast-paced lyrics, all almost sustained build-up, the kind of mob chant, and long, unbroken streams.

I guess I’m arguing that the diverse genres and concepts of music theories can be used and implemented into your life in such a way as to gain control of your very mind. To never feel like you are in the wrong mood – tired, sad, too pumped up, etc. Go into a quiet place and listen; let the music carry you. It’s almost a sort of neurotechnology, haha (to connect things). Music is a stimulant that can take us to new heights, so I thought I would share my experience.

To take it further, the actual skill would be to possess this ability without music as a stimulant. I believe music is a good way to put on the training wheels and practice the ability to wield your emotions as a weapon for control. Alright, I gotta get back to work, until tmr!

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