I came across this statement yesterday while logging onto Flashline. It is number three on a list that’s supposed to help students reduce stress during the holidays. Now, I’m not a psychology major, nor do I have any knowledge or experience dealing with that sort of thing, but I can say that no one believes more in the healing power of music than me.

For as long as I can remember, music has always been a part of my life. Over the years, my love, admiration and affection for it grew. It all goes back to my earliest memories of my brother and I sitting in our living room on a cold winter night.

Both of us would sit interestedly on the floor, staring up at our father as he played the piano. We were both fascinated by the ease with which he could play any song we could think of. I remember all of the songs and I’ve even learned some of them myself.

Then, when I got a little bit older, through every family member, I was exposed to all sorts of great, classic music. At a young age, while my friends were listening to the newest “Now that’s what I call music” CD, I was listening to old collections of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Chicago, The Who and Jimi Hendrix, to name a few.

As the years went by, though, listening wasn’t enough anymore. I had seen my father, uncle, grandmother and even my brother play music. It was my turn. It was time to sign up for the fifth-grade band. I chose the trombone.

Although I didn’t stick with the instrument, it sparked my love for playing. From then on and to this day, I still play and learn music. I play the piano, drums, bass and guitar, and I can honestly say that I love them all.

Music has always been there for me, in the best times of my life and in the worst. It was there when I was an awkward kid struggling to fit in. It was there through my first broken heart. And it was there when I played my first live show.

The electricity and energy I felt was unlike anything else. I felt like I was going to burst out of my skin and fly away. The bonds of brotherhood I felt with my fellow musicians at those moments are indescribable and irreplaceable. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is, fellow students, heed this advice: Whenever you’re having a bad day and don’t know what else to turn to, blast your favorite music when no one is around and dance like a fool.

Because good music that makes you feel good is a window to our innermost selves.

It is a window to our souls. And to understand it, explore it and really find yourself through it is truly a saving grace. Music does have power, so explore it and embrace it. Heal yourself through the magic of music.

Anthony Lumpp is a freshman biology major and a guest columnist for the Daily Kent Stater. Contact him at [email protected].