I walk to the corner jukebox in my family’s favorite hamburger joint. I’m barely tall enough to see the song selections and slip in a quarter so I can play my favorites. Soon oldies tunes like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” spill out through the speakers and I return to my table with a smile.
Years later my family is visiting and I no longer need a jukebox or quarters. Now I simply step into the living room and click on my personalized Pandora station. Within minutes, we’re laughing and swaying to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” as we grill hamburgers in the backyard.
For years my husband and I have debated over which matters more: the beat of the music (him) or the words (me). It turns out we’re both right. For music to make us happier, the notes and the words both need to be upbeat. There’s a reason why we’re supposed to “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” {Ps. 98:4}.
{Confession: Some Christian music depresses me. It just does. And while sorrowful songs have their place, there are times when I just can’t go there because I’m already in a down place. And I’ve figured out that’s okay.}
My favorite places to find a happy tune when I need one…
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough Pandora Station
KLRC – The Positive Difference
Research has also shown singing can also make us happier. I can’t sing so while it might make me happier, it would make those around me quite miserable. So I’ll leave making music to the professionals. But I’m glad I can enjoy it.
What’s your favorite song to listen to when you need a little more happy in your day?
XOXO