We Don’t Need a Full Moon to Moondance - We Need to Dance More Often
Too bad it is only Monday
Isn’t it amazing how a song can get you pumped up for a workout or how another song can send you down memory lane? Or how about those songs that just bring you a sense of peace? We all have them, and I’d bet some psychologists out there can tell a lot about people by what they have in their playlists. I’ve been finding some of the most beautiful tunes lately, and the song that I am writing about tonight is a dim the lights, kick up the fireplace, Cabernet Sauvignon, and aged cheddar type of song.
This song tells no specific story – and it is kind of up to you to interpret its meaning. Sometimes, I think about my journeys and changes when I listen to it. Then, if it hits my air pods when I am on a walk (gotta get my 10,000) – I kind of think it is about nature. Who the hell knows what he was thinking when he wrote it? We all know that Van Morrison was the type of singer who could have turned Twinkle Twinkle Little Star into the last song of the evening, which hopefully nets you the kiss you’ve been waiting for.
I must thank Emily Graham at MightyMoms.net for the idea for tonight’s entry. Through her website, Emily shares important information with parents, and we've connected through the magic of the World Wide Web. Finding moments of tranquility and self-care can often seem like a distant dream in the hustle and bustle of parenthood – particularly for single parents and for parents with high-needs children. The responsibilities of raising children, managing a household, and juggling work commitments can leave little time for personal reflection or relaxation. But in these moments of cataclysmic busyness, Van Morrison gives a lifeline to parents needing a mental escape and a reminder of the importance of self-care.
I think the idea of Into the Mystic is in its ability to carry listeners to inner peace and serenity…just a little. Morrison's references to sailing into the mystic and the sense of unity with the natural world evoke feelings of freedom and liberation. For parents, these themes can be incredible, reminding them of the importance of nurturing their well-being amidst the chaos that only 2024 can bring. Might this song encourage parents to embrace the quiet moments, whether on a quiet walk alone, in a peaceful meditation, or when we have that buzz in our ears because it is finally quiet and our brains cannot understand such a concept?
For those of you out there who are busting your ass to take care of one or more kids, keep a house in order, and, if you can swing it – take the crew on a vacation, you know how quickly you can get to burnout mode. And there is nothing. I mean nothing worse than working yourself to the bone. And then what happens when your tank is empty? What does it take to put you into a tizzy? How many people do you know who jump from one job to the next, deprioritizing sleep and diet just to get by? Self-care is not just a luxury for parents; it's necessary to maintain emotional and physical health.
Van the Man - thanks for Into the Mystic
Here, good old Van offers us a beautiful reminder that self-care can take many forms, and sometimes, it takes just a few minutes of disconnecting from the outside world to find relief and revival. Hopefully, you clicked on the song, and by allowing yourself to be carried away by Mr. Morrison, you found a moment of a sense of balance and perspective, which, in turn, can help you be more present and patient with the littles…or your job…or whoever the hell is mad at you today.
One final note. Much like parents, our teachers are in constant motion—planning lessons, grading assignments, managing classrooms, and supporting students' diverse needs. The relentless pace can lead to burnout, a state all too familiar in the teaching profession not just these days…but always. If you think taking care of one or two kids is tough – try 24 of them. Then, throw in the parent who is completely dissatisfied with your efforts. As soon as you get done working, getting an E-mail telling you how awful you are isn’t quite the Chicken Soup for the Soul you were hoping for.
So, just like parents, our teachers often need to find a source of strength and inspiration. The song serves as a reminder that while striving to educate and nurture others, taking time for oneself is not an act of selfishness but a necessity. By prioritizing their well-being, teachers can better support their students, creating a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom.
This one is for parents and teachers alike. In the end, both parenting and teaching are travels into the Mystic, filled with moments of joy, challenge, and profound growth. By taking care of yourselves, those who care for and educate our children ensure that they can continue to guide them senses of hope, patience and love.