Sound or vibration, according to the great Indian master, Paramhansa Yogananda, is the most powerful force in the universe. That’s because we are made of vibration, and everything we do and think creates a vibration. The sound of Aum or Amen, the “word of God,” is the vibration of His consciousness that brought into manifestation this entire creation.
Of all the arts, music is the most immediate because it provides a direct transferal of feeling and experience. All music, in one way or another, opens the door to states of consciousness.
The question then arises, what kind of music do you normally listen to, and what effect does it have? Does it make you agitated or calm? Does it bring confusion and anxiety, or peace and understanding?
Confucius said, “Do you wish to know if a kingdom is well governed, if the morals of its inhabitants are good or bad? Look to the music that is current there.” It is said of the Chinese emperors in ancient times that whenever they toured the provinces, they asked to listen to the music. They didn’t look at the financial records. Nor did they inquire into the honesty of the officials. If the music was right, everything, so they believed, was as it should be. But if something was not right with the music, not only did this deficiency mean there was something wrong in those other areas of activity, but it was the music above all that needed correcting. Once that had been set right, everything else would improve also.
I have a friend who, like many people, had the habit of listening to the news as he drove to work. It was important, he felt, to know what’s going on. As a result, however, he arrived at his workplace feeling unfocused and agitated – not a great way to start the day. After some time it occurred to him, “Maybe I would have a more successful day if I listened to uplifting music or an inspiring talk on my way to work.” He tried the experiment, and it worked! Now he regularly starts his workday in a calm, positive state of mind that enhances his efforts throughout the day.
It’s important to realize that in a very real sense, we are music. Scientists have found that every atom emits a certain sound. Without music (sound), life itself would cease to be.
Our lives, like music, can express harmony or disharmony. Each person needs to discover who he is and find his center within himself. From within, and in attunement with the inner Song of Creation, come the compassion and power that enable people to work together in a spirit of true harmony.