by Betsy Schussler
Penned by an anonymous author, the hymn ‘“How Can I Keep From Singing”, was first published in 1868. Today, it can be found in 149 hymnals of many traditions. The lyrics speak to a universal human yearning:
“My life flows on in endless song,
above earth’s lamentation.
I catch the sweet, though far-off hymn
that hails a new creation.
Through all the tumult and the strife,
I hear that music ringing.
It finds an echo in my soul.
How can I keep from singing?”
Lamentation describes a level of grief and mourning that, sadly, many of us have experienced. To arrive at a place where singing is possible at such a time speaks to the resilience and hopefulness of the human spirit.
Our moments of true lamentation, thankfully are few. Yet daily, we find ourselves experiencing episodes of dissatisfaction when our preferences conflict with the way things are. Unchecked, our emotions may slide toward agitation, aggravation, irritation, consternation…to name a few. When grocery lines are long, traffic patterns complex, or noise levels amplified, our internal dialogue may be far from melodic.
Yet there are other, different times when it is wise to check the song in our heart. These are the times when we have experienced moments of celebration or proclamation. A boon, a promotion, a conquest of sorts, sets us apart from our fellow human beings, many of whom may be struggling to find even a hint of song in their lives. At these times, our song may swell into one of self-aggrandizement while hidden within lies a note of discontent. For even then, we may be reckoning with the law of impermanence and the fear of loss.
How might discordant melodies of the heart be shaped into a more melodic contour? By shining the light of awareness, we are reminded that all song is fueled by breath or inspiration. Being attentive to our rhythmic in-breath/out-breath brings us to a point of integration where our nourishing song is embraced.
Breathing toward equanimity, how can I keep from singing?