Stendhal Syndrome: Why Songs Make Us Emotional

 

Some songs tug at your heartstrings, sometimes at first listen, and most times, the familiar music holds a different meaning when you are vulnerable or just because the song resonates with you profoundly, from earlier memories, happy and sad. Other music touches you because of the hauntingly beautiful melody, even transcending language barriers.

The sheer beauty of music brings tears to my eyes. Stendhal Syndrome, Florence Syndrome, or hyperkulturemia is an emotional response to music and art that triggers a physiological response that activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Some complain of rapid heartbeat, fainting, confusion, and even hallucinations. In my case, it might just be a mild case of being teary-eyed and nostalgic.

That might explain a nine-year-old boy’s spontaneous awe-struck exclamation of “WOW” after a classical performance by the Handel and Haydn Society. Ronan Mattin’s one-word praise after the last note of Mozart’s piece was so genuine and wondrous that the audience erupted in laughter and applause. It turned out that Ronan was an autistic child who barely spoke, but his appreciation of the music brought out the Wow, which was heard around the classical world.

www.https://wfacebook.com/watch/?v=1239206220856774

 

Justin Bieber- “Lonely”

What if you had it all

But nobody to call?

Maybe then you'd know me

'Cause I've had everything

But no one's listening

And that's just lonely

I'm so lonely

Lonely

With recent bombshell news about Sean “Puff” Diddy’s arrest related to criminal wrongdoings, I learned about Justin’s unfortunate experience with those who should have protected him. Drawn by the lure of Hollywood, Justin, at 15 years old, descended into a life of drugs and a perverse lifestyle. Thankfully, he came out of it and found a new life with his wife and a new baby.

“Lonely” is a plaintive plea for help from a tortured soul.

 

 

Celine Dion-  "Hymne A L'Amour", July 2024            

Celine Dion is a fighter. Stiff-person Disease kept her out of the limelight for four years. Still, she triumphantly returned to close the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris, France, with a stunning tour de force performance of Edith Piaf’s "Hymne A L'Amour". Singing on the balcony of the Eiffel Tower with the giant Olympic rings framing the scene, Celine showed the world what courage and perseverance look like.

“If the sky should fall into the sea, and the stars fade all around me …”

 

 

Young Forever fancam - London Wembley Stadium (Army surprise BTS!), 2019

The BTS fans known as the “Army” had a secret mission to surprise the BTS supergroup by singing 'Young Forever' during their concert at the London Wembley Stadium. The song made the boys tear up!

 

 

Andre Rieu- “The Rose”, 2014

Tender, melancholic rendition of the Amanda McBroom composition, made famous by Bette Midler in her 1979 film.

 

Josh Turner- “How Great Thou Art”

This song started as a traditional Swedish melody and a poem. It was translated from Russian to English and is now considered the second-favorite hymn after "Amazing Grace" of all time.

 

Carol Banawa- “Iingatan Ka”

My song for my mom. I miss her. So much.

I’ll take care of you

I’ll watch over you

In my heart, you are my greatest dream.

In this world

There’s no one else but you

I live my life for you forevermore.

Celebrating 110 Years of the Iglesia ni Cristo

Today, July 20, 2024, at The Forest Hills locale, our mid-year Thanksgiving service is a celebration of the extraordinary journey of this church from the Philippines. It is a momentous occasion that is being observed by fellow members worldwide. Coinciding with the break of the First World War on July 27, 2014, Brother Felix Manalo registered the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) with the Philippine government in Punta, Santa Ana, Manila,

This is the INC’s 110^th anniversary. From its humble beginnings in a tiny nipa hut, the Church's exponential growth can be seen in its glorious and magnificent houses of worship in over 166 countries. This is a testament to the promise of the Almighty God to watch over His people. The Church's expansion to foreign shores and including non-Filipinos in its burgeoning membership defied all odds and surpassed all expectations.

Throughout the years, I felt God's love as I navigated life's challenges. Even through the darkest times, I did not feel alone. Life could have been easier if I had not had to stay true to my faith, but instead, my life is so much richer with spiritual blessings. Yes, we only live once, so why not make it worthwhile, not with fleeting pleasures, but with the assurance of eternal life?

The Lord Almighty saved me on that fateful day, Sept. 11, 2001, and He has guided me to stay on the straight road, no matter what. 

I am privileged to be a member of the Iglesia ni Cristo. My favorite hymn reminds me of this. I am blessed; truly, I am blessed.

“O, my Father, I now deeply meditate

On the blessings You give day to day

Truly, you have never failed to care for me.

And You provide my every need.”

 

Rising from the Far East

https://incmedia.org/rising-from-the-far-east/

 

Centennial

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-centennial.html

Remembering Nanay

May 12, 2024

This Mother’s Day is our first without our Nanay. She passed away on January 31^st, 2024, 14 days before her 93^rd birthday.

Random memories still bring tears to my eyes. We are luckier than most because we had our mother for a long time, but how can you teach your heart not to break?

As I wrote to her once: My heart belongs to the one person who can bring me down to my knees with a single look when I was naughty as a kid; the one person who can lift my heart with a sweet smile; the one person who can make me giggle until I jingle when she starts her chicken dance; the one person who inspires me with her resilience and quiet strength; the one person who can make me open my wallet with just a little wink; and the one person who can get me bawling like a baby with a single tear.

Some days are easier than most when I remember her funny dance and her easy laugh. I remember her eyes lighting up whenever she saw a Barbie doll in Toys R Us in the 1990s. Her Barbie collection was her most prized collection, and we will honor her fervent wish to preserve her dolls for eternity.

There are times when the emotions hit like a freight train, and I just let the tears flow, knowing that I have to navigate the full spectrum of the grieving process. I understand that this emotional journey that all my siblings and everyone who loves her will abate in its intensity as time goes by.

I would like to imagine Nanay and Tatay together, with my father chasing her to dance the Rico Mambo. I pray the Almighty God will look after them in His enduring wisdom and kindness.

We all grieve differently and cope in the best way we can. The profound loss will always remain because the memories will not dim our love for her. As I have done in the past, I will continue to write about my mom; this is my emotional catharsis, how I rejoice in her glorious presence in my heart.

I just miss her so very much.

 

Feb.14, 2024

Today should have been the 93rd birthday of my dear Nanay. Her children wanted to celebrate her memories. Although our hearts are still reeling from her loss, we are still grateful that she did not suffer. I am comforted by the outpouring of love from family and friends. I am strengthened by her memories, as well as by remembrances from everyone. My brothers and our relatives celebrated her in our home in Las Pinas. In Aklan, Bheng, Jordan, Tess, and I celebrated with her siblings, pamangkins, and apos. She is well-loved, and death cannot steal her beautiful memories. In her absence, she still makes me smile. My Barbie-loving mom, I love you so much.

Jan. 31, 2024

My heart breaks, splintered in so many pieces. My Nanay passed away today after a massive stroke. She would have been 93 this coming Feb. 14th. She would have enjoyed the party we were planning for her. And now, she is gone. She will be forever in my heart. The following days will be tough, but it's made easier with the love from family and friends. My mother lived a full life. And now, she rests. Those she left behind need to be strengthened and comforted by the memories of a strong, formidable, and loving woman.

 

May 14, 2023

The sentiment remains the same. Today, on Mother's Day, I can hug you virtually, Nanay. You are my guiding light and inspiration. I can't wait to see you again on our next vacation. Nag-iipon pa.

 

Feb. 14, 2023

My dear Nanay, even though I am not with you on your 92nd birthday, I am happy you got your fervent wish to spend your special day with your brothers and sisters in Aklan. The joy on your face is priceless as you reminisce and laugh about your childhood memories or whatever sisters talk about in their old age.  May you stay as joyful as you are. Your sisters have adopted your unique way of dancing (flapping) with your arms, hahaha! The videos and pictures demonstrate how you are well-respected and well-loved, like a queen. Bheng, can you get the Segovia siblings to sit still for a group picture when you get there? And then, give her the biggest hug for me.  Nay, Mother dear, I love you so very much.

 

Feb. 14, 2022

On your 91st birthday, Nanay, I send my warmest virtual hug and kisses. Across the miles, on our video call, I sensed your eagerness to travel to Aklan. Don't worry; just be a little patient. Just get your booster dose first, and you will see your sisters again. And I get to see and hug you in real life in a few months. It will be the most precious time. It is so heart-wrenching to be far apart from you, not being able to see my family in the Philippines during this Covid pandemic. Love you so much.

 

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2021/02/love-letters-to-my-nanay.html

 

 The song "Mapa" by the P-Pop boyband SB-19 is about these young men paying tribute to their moms and dads. In it, they reassure their parents that they will now care for them as they once did. I am thankful that I was able to show my gratitude and love to my parents when they were still alive.

 

“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.”

– Washington Irving

Favorite Filipino Chorale Renditions

 

It thrills me whenever I hear foreigners singing Filipino songs. Although Filipino songs have not yet gained worldwide attention, musical choirs, and glee clubs worldwide seem to be fascinated by the melodies, cadence, and intricate harmonies of long-forgotten folk songs from my native Philippines.

LERON-LERON-SINTA

Composed by Alberto Tolentino. Arranger- Saunder Choi

In January 2024, a Swedish choir bagged the Grand Prize in a European chorale competition with their exuberant rendition of “Leron-Leron Sinta” (My Dear, Little Leron). The multi-awarded acapella choir cHägersten A Cappella sang this Tagalog song with enthusiasm and vitality.

Composed by Alberto Florentino, it is believed to be a traditional work song in Tagalog sung in a call-and-response mode by men and women during the papaya harvest season. The lyrics motivate workers to keep moving forward and stay positive to attain their goals.

Sweden's Leron Leron Sinta Grand Prize in Europe (+ Awarding Night ) 

 

Here are some of my favorite chorale renditions:

 

 AY, AY, AY, O-PAG IBIG

Filipino Song: Canada vs Korea vs Germany (Ay, Ay, Ay, O Pag-ibig by George Hernandez - Arranger)

The Big Sing 2023 National Finale - Session 1, Takapuna Grammar School Chorale

ROSAS PANDAN

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9l4vteAI6g

Rosas Pandan", a Visayan Folk Song arr. George Hernandez, performed by the Chamber Ensemble with soloist

 DAHIL SA IYO

Yerra Buena Gardens Festival

 

 PARU-PARONG BUKID

 

DA COCONUT NUT

The Baylor University Men's Choir sings Da Coconut Nut by Ryan Cayabyab.

 PAKITONG KITONG

This is a song from my childhood, those long ago time when our big family of cousins converged together and sang our hearts out. I am happy to see young ones preserving these beloved songs.

Performed by: The Mandaue Children and Youth Chorus

Tong Tong Pakitong Kitong, Dandansoy— Loboc Children's Choir in Melbourne

Children's choir from Bohol, Philippines performs in Melbourne

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2017/08/da-coconut-nut.html

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2010/10/tigadong-tigadong-rosas-pandan.html

Loving Fall

I love the Fall foliage so much so that I thought it deserved its own post before the cold of Winter brings shivers to my fingers and my mind. Autumn is smacked between the sweats and bugs of Summer and the dreary, slushy Winter. For me, Autumn is a season of glorious splendor.

Autumn shows off the vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow against the bright blue sky. The leaves are dancing in the wind, as the trees hold on to their crowning glory, even as the chlorophylls, anthocyanins, and carotenoids work behind the scene. 

There is music as I walk on a carpet of leaves. The air is crisp and smells of pumpkin-spiced latte. And I get to wear warm and cozy sweaters to cover my belly flab and saggy arms.

The mosaic of colors brings a sense of warmth and peace, triggering my orbitofrontal cortex. Breathe in, breathe out. My serotonin-booster.

The Fall season ushers in nostalgia for traditions that bring comfort and joy. As the trees prepare to hibernate, it is also the time to rest and contemplate. To snuggle with a fuzzy blanket, a great book, and hot cocoa. 

Autumn is a chance to wind down from the hectic activities of the Summer, reflect on the past, and plan for the future, even if just to mentally strengthen for the rigors of the winter season. 

It is the time to give thanks for God's blessings.

 

 

"How silently they tumble down / And come to rest upon the ground / To lay a carpet, rich and rare / Beneath the trees without a care,"- Elsie N. Brady

Reaching a Milestone: My 9/11 birthday

 

A few years ago, I couldn’t imagine that I would admit to my real age. I am not vain at all. I just wanted to slow the time of reckoning.  I wanted to preserve the idea of youth where opportunities still abound and the world-is-an-oyster kind of optimism. I wanted to remain agile, adventurous, and creative.

Well, today, I overcame all those crazy ideas, and I proudly proclaim that I reached the milestone. I am finally 65 years old. Just don’t you ever tell me that I don’t look a day over 64 because I will disown you as a friend for life. I am not old; I am wiser.

Yes, I can now claim Medicare, although I am still working five days a week, and have not yet claimed my SSN benefits. My head is still full of ideas, my neurons are still active. I can actually work full-time for two more years and even longer, if I want. I guess, I am still crazy.

Sixty-five is a milestone that anyone should aspire to. Twenty-two years ago, that almost did not happen. I have written about that fateful day on September 11, 2001, when I stood on the platform of a Manhattan-bound train, eager to spend my morning at the Starbucks café in the World Trade Center. For the grace of God, I changed my mind and went home.

A few years after the 9/11 tragedy, I was even reluctant to celebrate my birthday until someone told me that I deserved to celebrate my special day and so I did, in a low-key manner, mindful to not encroach on the grief that permeates that particular day. I have actually written several blog posts about my mixed feelings about this day (I am so emo, I know).

Today, I took a day off from work and just spent my special day enjoying that I did not have to do anything, lazing around in my BTS t-shirt gift from my sister Bheng. Read some historical romances, listened to music from BTS, SB-19, Lee Suhyun, and AKMU, and played with Boomer. Later tonight, we will feast on a Jollibee spread of chicken joy, hamburger, pancit palabok, and coconut pineapple pie. I had three birthday celebrations already prior to today. My heart is full of joy for the birthday wishes on Facebook and Messenger. Thank you all so much.

Since this is a day of reflection, I want to list the many ways that I am thankful for:

• The gift of life. I had a health scare early this year, but everything worked out well. I still have the aches and pains of getting older, but I am generally healthy.
• My faith. I feel spiritually blessed. As my favorite hymn goes, “Let God take charge of your life”.
• Family and friends. I am thankful that I spent my last birthday back in the Philippines, and that I was able to hug my mother again. Thank you for my supportive family, and a whole slew of cousins out there. My friends make my life interesting.
• Despite my age, I still remain agile, adventurous, and creative.

My bucket list, what’s left on it:

• Travel more. I am thinking of starting another blog with my travels.
• Write another book.
• Attend a BTS concert. That will be in 2025 after all the boys finished their military service, I am attending an Andre Rieu concert in a few days, so that is one off my bucket list.
• Paint, draw again, be creative.
• Present in a national/international nursing conference
• Learn to bake. My son Jordan can, why can’t I?
• Tiktok???

 Birthday posts:

A 9/11 Birthday

A 9/11 Birthday Thank You

 

 

 

COMFORT SONGS Part 2

 

 

Why do we need comfort songs? Like comfort food, we tend to go back to those things which ease our minds, warm us during the cold nights, and heal our broken hearts. But comfort songs are not meant only for turbulent times; they can just be reminders of how music brings calm, positive thoughts, and happiness. Comfort songs put me in a state of Zen, of just letting go, and enjoying the music to relax my body, mind, and spirit.

My first go-to comfort songs are church songs. These spiritual songs as played by our late brother in Christ Dr. Genesis Rivera are my emotional first aid. In times of trouble and sadness, I play these songs to meditate and pray.

I DEEPLY MEDITATE

LET GOD TAKE CHARGE OF MY LIFE

There are other comfort songs that I have added to my playlist.

AUTUMN IN MELBOURNE

This song was featured in many Instagram reels. The acoustic guitar version is also used in many Korean dramas.

BALLADE POUR ADELINE- Richard Clayderman

This is the song from my teenage years that made me an avid fan of Richard Clayderman. This song was composed in 1977 by Paul de Senneville for his newborn daughter. Whenever I play this song on my computer, my brother stops watching the Mets game and asks me again if my son finally learned how to play this on the piano.

 

REALITY- Lee Suhyun

I have been addicted to this song since Lee Suhyun sang this as part of the Begin Again musical series. “Reality" was performed by English singer Richard Sanderson in 1980.

 

Dreams are my reality

The only kind of reality

Maybe my foolishness has past

And maybe now at last

I'll see how a real thing can be

Dreams are my reality

A wonderous world where I like to be

I dream of holding you all night

And holding you seems right

Perhaps that's my reality

 

MAMANG SORBETERO (Ice Cream Man) by Celeste Legaspi

Music by Jose Mari Chan, lyrics by Gryk Ortaleza. This is a nostalgic nod to my childhood when we eagerly waited for that distinctive bell that signaled the ice cream man, not to be mistaken for the American ice cream truck that ushers the beginning of summer here in America.  No, the sorbetero comes all throughout the year to bring the traditional ice cream with coconut or carabao milk. I was always the first one greeting Mamang Sorbetero, so eager to get the first cone, so I can come back for more.

 

 

I WILL FOLLOW HIM- by Andre Rieu

This rousing song does not fail to make me smile. A masterpiece of a performance.

 

 

Top 6 Comfort Songs Playlist : 

https://jcerrudocreations.blogspot.com/2021/08/top-6-comfort-songs.html