Five
Sections
This recording is divided into five
sections, though each song and each segment of conversation may
stand on its own. The first section is the introduction. Obviously
you have already begun listening to that portion of the recording.
Here the basic scope of the recording and foundational material
is considered. Between the introduction and the concluding segment
are three sections which somewhat outline a journey, a sort of sunrise
as the transition from darkness to light is achieved. The first
part of this trilogy is a brief reflection on the trials women have
faced and continue to face. Both sides of the issue of pre-determined
expectations are addressed as we consider the role we each play
in both listening to and creating voices that discourage us from
remaining true to ourselves. The next section is a "homecoming,"
the recognition of the serene and joyful spirit that lies at the
center of her being. The third of these sections is the "gifts"
section that identifies and praises many of the virtues inherent
within the feminine spirit. The recording concludes with the celebration
section, singing praises to the beauty, wonder, and majesty of her
being.
Listening Tips
» Autonomy
I have already mentioned that each
song and each monologue may be considered individually. I hope that
each will hold some level of meaning for you regardless of the context.
As with any form of art or literature, as your point of view changes
the messages will likely change as well. I hope these offerings
bear enough fruit to yield such rewards for you.
» Explanation of Songs »
Find Your Own Meaning
In the conversation sections I will
often discuss the concept behind a song or the feelings and thoughts
that gave rise to its creation. I hope that these descriptions will
enhance rather than interfere with your own interpretations. For
that reason, the explanation will generally follow rather than precede
the song. This will enable you to first experience each song relatively
free of a preconceived perspective. This very idea is central to
the theme of this work. In my way of thinking, when God placed within
us our unique gifts, they were packaged with easy to read instructions
on how and when to use them. But we have been conditioned to barrel
along on our own, not taking the time to read the instructions -
a practice which is, by the way, stereotypically a male malady.
So when your ideas, thoughts, or feelings and mine don't coincide,
take yours. My journey was writing and recording from the perspective
of my ideas and experiences. Only you can accurately determine your
own.
» Allow meanings to grow
with you
It is also my hope that the songs
will grow with you, carrying ever-changing meanings as your experiences
and perspectives change throughout your daily life. I read my favorite
books and listen to my favorite recordings again and again. It's
always amazing to me how different they are each time as I grow
and experience new situations. Whether the time between each reading
or listening is short or long, something strikes me differently
each and every time. This excites me. Where it's true that change
doesn't always mean growth, I believe it's fair to say that growth
does require change.
Tone
The songs reflect a variety of moods
though it appears to me that there's a certain similarity or thread
that runs through them. Some seem happy and some seem sad, but even
this is open to interpretation and change from listening to listening.
In most cases, the goal was a non-intrusive and relaxed tone. Hopefully
you will be able to express joy, sadness, and/or the various and
sundry hues between the two whenever and wherever you feel it is
appropriate. Perhaps at times, particularly in the section about
trials and challenges, it might seem as though the tone is not at
all celebratory. Whereas joy is the primary voice of celebration,
celebration is also expressed in reverence, reflection, and soulfulness.
I have personally experienced occasions where the deepest and richest
celebrations have resounded through sorrow. The spirit touches us
in darkness and in light, and indeed it is against that darkness
that her glory has radiated throughout much of history. How then
can we fully and accurately celebrate the feminine spirit without
mention of pain? I believe that it may well be this idea that gives
rise to that common thread that I mentioned runs through each of
the songs.
Voice
When I first conceived of the idea for this song cycle, I was faced
with a bit of a dilemma. Would I sing to her or about her? Would
I sing to her, or for her - and if I sang for her, why would hers
be a masculine voice? When I posed these problems to a friend who
leads a woman's spirituality group, she encouraged me not to worry
about it. So I finally decided not to decide. I have recorded the
songs as they were written, without specific regard to point of
view, voice, or tense. The points of view, like the meanings, are
for you to choose. Perhaps when I sing "she" or "her"
I will be singing directly to you. Perhaps I will be singing about
women in general or a specific friend or loved one of yours. When
I say "I" or "me," I could be singing either
to you or for you. Perhaps you can consider each song at different
times from a variety of perspectives.
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