The Moving Finger writes and, having writ
Moves on nor all your Piety nor Wit
Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line
Nor all your Tears wash out a Word of it
The Moving Finger writes and, having writ
Moves on
The Rubaiyat of Dorothy Ashby
A Harmonious Journey of Music and Meditation
On July 17, 2024, our 8th Spiritual Jazz & Meditation Jam Session featured Dorothy Ashby’s music, blending meditation with her album “The Rubaiyat of Dorothy Ashby.” We explored cultural influences, practiced moment-by-moment awareness, and reflected on life’s impermanence. We shared emotional and philosophical insights, noting how the music deepened our meditation and connected us to a broader sense of existence.
Highlights of the Session:
1. Immersion in Dorothy Ashby’s Music:
We delved into Ashby’s groundbreaking album, “The Rubaiyat of Dorothy Ashby.” We explored the cultural richness in her music, which draws from Persian, Japanese, and African influences, symbolized by the koto (a Japanese string instrument)
2. Engaging Meditation Practices:
Moment-by-Moment Awareness: We practiced a meditation technique focused on observing our thoughts, noting the process of noting, and ultimately becoming aware of the observer. This method encouraged a profound level of mindfulness.
Breath Counting Exercise: We practiced counting our breaths backward from our age to zero, a technique that challenges and refines focus amidst distractions.
3. Deep Listening and Analysis:
We listened to select tracks from Ashby’s oeuvre, including “Drink,” “For Some We Loved,” and “Wax & Wane.” I invited participants to notice the intricate interplay of instruments, rhythms, and lyrics, with many discovering the subtle presence of the koto and flute.
4. Reflective and Enlightening Discussions:
Participants shared their experiences of how the music influenced their meditation, noting their mental and emotional impacts.
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- Embracing Distractions: I emphasized using distractions as meditation objects, helping us remain grounded and attentive regardless of internal or external disturbances. One participant remarked, “Embracing the distractions really shifted my meditation practice. It allowed me to stay present no matter what arose.”
- Themes of Impermanence: The lyrics often touched on the fleeting nature of life, evoking deep reflections on the importance of living in the present moment. A participant shared, “The music reminded me of the impermanence of life, which made me appreciate the here and now even more.”
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5. Emotional and Philosophical Insights:
The session fostered rich emotional and philosophical discussions. Participants resonated with the universal themes of Ashby’s music, finding inspiration in her mystical reflections on existence and the search for meaning. One participant noted, “Listening to Ashby’s music during meditation brought up deep emotions and made me reflect on my own life’s journey.”
6. Integration of Cultural Influences:
We celebrated the cultural diversity in Ashby’s music, appreciating how she blended elements from various traditions to create a spiritually enriching soundscape. This fusion highlighted the interconnectedness of global spiritual and philosophical traditions. A participant observed, “The mix of cultural influences in the music made me feel a sense of global unity and interconnectedness.”
Why You Should Join Us Next Time:
Our next session promises another enriching experience where music and meditation converge to offer deep insights and tranquility. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the practice, our sessions provide a welcoming space to explore and expand your mindfulness through spiritual jazz’s soothing and thought-provoking sounds. Join us to connect with a community of like-minded individuals, share your reflections, and immerse yourself in the harmonious blend of music and meditation.
Upcoming Session Details:
John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme”
Date: August 21, 2024
Time: 7:00 pm
Place: Zoom
I look forward to you participating in our next Spiritual Jazz & Meditation Jam Session. Let’s continue to explore the transformative power of music and meditation inspired by the timeless legacy of Dorothy Ashby and other Spiritual Jazz artists.
With mindful melodies,
Jerome Paige
The Meditativist
Meditativism integrates mindfulness and activism, using meditation to achieve mental clarity, emotional calm, and purposeful societal contributions. This approach fosters interconnectedness and wise actions for community and planetary well-being.