A few years ago I suffered a bout of deep depression. It was the perfect emotional storm: I was 7 years into 10 years of research and writing for my thesis, my father died and I tore ligaments in my left ankle jumping off my board in shallow water. Luckily I had accrued sick leave and some long service leave so I was able to take a break from my job.
For a couple of weeks I was on crutches - I couldn't walk on the beach and I couldn't surf. I couldn't do much for months so I stayed home and lay on the bed while my long-suffering patient partner brought me cups of tea and pretty much looked after everything. He didn't try to cheer me up - he was just there. He and I both understood without ever discussing it that I needed to stay in that black hole until I didn't need to be there any more. It was many many months before I climbed out.
Part of my recovery was a set of 10 Kum Nye yoga poses. I felt unmotivated and I hated them but I did them religiously every morning. I collated a playlist to listen to as I did them and this was on the list. It used to make me cry.
When I hear music like this nothing in the world really matters. Sometimes I still wish I could stay inside the music forever and never have to face the world again.
Music: 'The Legend of Jesse James (Mary's Song)', Nick Cave & Warren Ellis
Music is a beautiful balance to challenging times. Love this song so much. Thank you so much for posting this.
ReplyDeleteYes, I'm returning to the music more and more recently Robin - which I guess says something about my state of mind.
DeleteMarvellous, thanks Michelle, I haven't heard this one before by two (not one but two!) of my crushes.
ReplyDeleteI thought of you when I posted this Sarah because I know you love Nick Cave.
DeleteA story of patience and holding space.
ReplyDeleteIt’s 3:30 am. I can’t listen to the music without disturbing my partner but I will later.
Your partner must know you well or was it an intuitive understanding?
ReplyDelete