The Power of a Song

 

I recently heard a pop song from about 50 years ago while listening to internet radio. Back then, I was in my mid-teens—an impressionable time—and I used to play that song over and over on a cassette tape. Even now, it resonates deeply within me, evoking a comfort that feels like an indescribable emotion. Why does it move me so much? The biggest reason may be the element of surprise—it played unexpectedly, without any intention on my part. If I had been going through a difficult time, I might have interpreted this coincidence as a meaningful sign, perhaps even a hint of destiny. When we deliberately choose a song to listen to, it rarely stirs the same depth of feeling. That’s because true coincidence, untouched by our will, can intensify emotion many times over, making the experience all the more powerful. Beyond the power of chance, nostalgic songs often revive positive memories and emotions from our youth. In particular, songs tied to feelings of admiration or hope seem to resist fading over time. Even after decades, they can reignite the excitement we once felt. Their familiar rhythms, melodies, and harmonies can reassure us that even our current struggles are temporary, quietly offering hope for a brighter tomorrow.

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