We’ve been receiving dozens of stories from people coast to coast about the transformative power of music. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are publishing a story every day in May.
Submitted by: Katrina Pezzoli
This May I celebrate 23 years of nursing practice. Some of the most challenging times in my career have come in recent weeks during the global pandemic caused by the Covid-19 virus. As a nurse, and in my role as a leader, I have often felt vulnerable, overwhelmed, and confused. Near-hourly changes in information and protocol have been difficult to process and share. Questioning my own decisions and those of leaders I depend on have left me feeling scared and angry. An endless swirl of questions and doubt has kept me awake many, many nights.
When I can’t sleep or when I feel overwhelmed, music often soothes my soul. Sometimes I just need a good cry, sometimes to dance and shake it all loose, sometimes to sing (badly out of tune at the top of my lungs), but most often just to listen and reflect; to hear words and melodies that speak to me.
I have found comfort in the song “And It’s Still Alright” by Nathaniel Rateliff recently. I like the bluesy, soulful melody that rocks along with a soothing rhythm. The lyrics remind me to be still and let go. They remind be to be grateful for what I have and what I can do to heal myself and others. Grounding myself with music always helps.
Be well. Be safe. It’s still alright. This is my mantra of late.
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