Remember the little things.

Sep. 6, 2011 at 1:19am with 302 notes

Reblogged from twloha

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“Against The Grain”
City and Colour

One month ago, I found myself staring into the blazing orange sunset. The 100-plus degree weather wrapped its warm arms around me as I watched the Arizona sun fall behind a cactus-covered mountain. Rarely do I take a moment to notice such beauty in life. Rarely do I allow myself to stop and recognize the fact that I am breathing, that I am alive. My time spent out west at the ranch taught me to be present, to live in the moment. I was removed from all forms of technology—no cell phone, laptop, iPod, or television—a foreign concept in today’s society. Yet, it was extremely freeing. It allowed me to disconnect from others and instead connect with myself, something I had never truly done before.

Because of this, I unearthed emotions that I had been hiding for years. Feelings that were dark and scary brought me back to painful thoughts and memories, while joyful ones brought a smile to my face. I contemplated who I had been and who I want to become. For years, I have attempted to live up to unattainable expectations that came from a variety of sources. This has only caused me to live in the future, always trying to be one step ahead of my present self. The place that this path took me down was not a pleasant one. Thus, this time away allowed me to begin to retrace my steps and discover the present reality I do want to live in so that I can more regularly appreciate life.

About a year ago, a few of my friends introduced me to the band City and Colour. I instantly fell in love with Dallas Green’s rich vocals and honest lyrics, especially those on his album Bring Me Your Love. The song “Against the Grain” touched my heart in a way that is difficult to describe. The recognition of the pain and sorrow in life rang true with my story. While I understand that hardships and loss do occur, and often go unexplained, the lyrics of this song reminded me that peace can still be found despite such hurt. Peace is always with you, found deep inside your heart.

As I sat watching the sun sink down that night in the desert, I opened my journal that had been given to me by a dear friend before I left for my trip out west. Inside the cover were these lyrics, reminding me why I had set foot on this unexpected adventure.

“You need not to climb mountaintops.
You need not to cross the sea.
You need not to find a cure
For everything that makes you weak.

You need not to reach for the stars,
When life becomes so dark
And when the wind
Does blow against the grain
You must follow your heart,
You must follow your heart.”

Even without an iPod, at that moment I found music in my life and life in my music. I hope you take a moment today to be present, take a deep breath, and follow your heart. You will not be alone in this, for I will do the same.

With Hope,

Nichole
TWLOHA Staff