iPod Shuffle

Songs:

1. It Don’t Mean a Thing if it ain’t got that Swing performed by Ella Fitzgerald

2. Bird Set Free by Sia

3. One More Time with Feeling by Regina Spektor

4. Multiplied by Need to Breathe

5. Lofty by Propaganda

What these song selections say about me:

1. It Don’t Mean a Thing if it ain’t got that Swing performed by Ella Fitzgerald

My first song selection discusses the importance of signature and style. In my writing as well as in my life I seek to emphasize features that are unique to me. While I’m still attempting to develop both my writing style and my personality, I think that communities—both public and within the church—are built by incredibly different people working interdependently toward a common goal. This selection seems to address my predilection for both originality and dependency.

2. Bird Set Free by Sia

This selection is a beautifully executed piece which seems to address the great freedom that can be found in giving oneself a voice through creative expression. While I think of myself as an introvert/ introspective individual, writing analytical or creative works allows me to process many theoretical/ challenging topics in a freeing yet comfortable manner (at least its not talking to a crowd). Many think this song may be Sia addressing how she has found freedom from addiction, using her pain as her pedestal for creative development. Similarly, it is my hope that through my creative development/writing people will see that I have experienced great freedom from sin because of the grace that I believe Christ lavished upon me at the cross.

3. One More Time with Feeling by Regina Spektor

 Regina Spektor’s song seems to address doing everything that one does with gusto. As a Christian I think this song could comment on the heart behind serving others. While nothing I ever do could earn salvation, I think that seeking to love on others through service is a quality of imperfect people that are grateful to be loved by a perfect God. Even broken people like me can be used in a mighty way by God—if that doesn’t put a little extra feeling, persistence, and ‘oomph’ into everything we do I don’t know what would.

4. Multiplied by Need to Breathe

This song is full of rich metaphors attempting to describe the love Christ has for us. It is a song of praise and adoration for that love—and a prayer seeking His help in creating a love ‘ripple effect’ through His church to communities. It is my hope that through my life people begin to see the inviting and accepting qualities of Jesus—it is my hope that through my life people will get a glimpse of worship.

5. Lofty by Propaganda

Propaganda’s rap lofty discusses creation by God, redemption through God, and worth given to us as a result of creation/redemption. In one word—awe. I think this song describes my response of creative expression—and  appreciation—in light of my belief that I was created by a divine Artist.