We live in divisive times – in case you hadn’t noticed. Often it feels to me like walking on eggshells around people I’ve known for a long time, because I don’t want to say “the thing” that will create a fault-line in our relationship. There’s a lot of “we” vs “them” floating around, in every aspect of our daily living. It’s enough to suck the joy out of any experience.

And that is why I am addicted to live music.

To me, music is a balm for these troubled times. It takes me outside of this time and space and transports me within, holding me close to the joy, happiness, love and contentment that can feel so tenuous at times. Recently on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Dr. Francis Collins talked about how listening to music gives you endorphins, making you feel better. I can attest to that.

When you are feeling good, it is easier for you to pass on that feeling to others. Try watching a giggling baby and not smile. Nearly impossible. I noticed that as I walked through a park, observing children gleefully playing, couples strolling and enjoying each other’s company, and teens relishing a playful soccer game, my mood lightened. I found myself smiling, which may have, in turn, been passed onto someone else I passed on my journey.

There was no greater example of this “balm for humanity” to me, than a recent music festival on the Jersey Shore. 35,000 people showed up, primarily to see Bruce Springsteen, who closed out the event (I mean – Bruce, on the beach, in Asbury Park… Epic!). But what really brought this concept home to me was the first band I stumbled upon. This event hosted 3 separate stages, many times with 3 different acts going on at the same time. As we walked down the boardwalk, I was drawn towards a stage where I heard the band playing “Bertha” by the Grateful Dead. Not really a Deadhead myself, I do like some of their tunes, and this one is particularly engaging. I joined the large audience already dancing and singing along, obviously enjoying themselves. I was a ways back from the stage, so could more easily hear the band, than see them. I looked around at the variety of audience members and KNEW that if there was a roll-call on issues, we would NOT all be in agreement. But, music was bringing us together.

After the song ended, the singer started talking about the group, whose name I had not yet caught. It was Bertha: Grateful Drag. This prompted me to crane my neck to somehow see the stage…and sure enough, it was a group of Drag Queens, playing and singing Grateful Dead music. I knew FOR SURE that not everyone in that crowd was agreeing with their choices, but it was very evident they appreciated the music.

Music transcends. Smiles transcend. Human kindness transcends. Joy transcends.

Find what brings you joy and connect to it. Your connection in turn may help another person to do the same. Let’s all find a way to rise above the ugliness – and as another group of “long haired” boys once said “Come Together…Right Now…”