I miss my ipod!

As a  missionary, we don't listen to certain types of music. We steer clear of most of it so that we can have our hearts and minds focused on the work that we are engaged in. I for one was obsessed with listening to music before I came out on the mission. I listen to it all with reggae and rock music being my main styles of choice. I am a little ashamed to say, but one of my only concerns about going on a mission was the fact that I wouldn't be able to listen to some of those songs that have become so much a part of my life.

As I have been out, I have noticed that certain songs that I used to listen to continually pop into my head. It is surprising to me at the most frequent ones that rise into my consciousness. From Simon and Garfunkel to Bob Marley, as well as every Beatles song that I have ever heard. If I had a dime for every time 'Her Majesty' by the Beatles came into my head, I would be rich enough to get a better education so that I didn't have to use a cliche' like this one. Sometimes I am a little creeped out when I start to hear nothing but Party in the U.S.A. by Miley Cyrus. That song is so dang catchy it makes me want to scream!

I have always loved what I call "Church" music. It's usually the stuff that I would turn on when Sunday came around. I have grown to love it even more as I have listened to it everyday of the mission. What I listen to now turns my thoughts to the Savior and His mission and helps me to stay focused on why I am out here. Don't get me wrong, one of the first things that I will do when I go home is plug in the Ipod and listen to some Fat Freddy's Drop. But for now, I am grateful for songs that are uplifting, edifying and motivating. One of the songs that have helped me remember my purpose as a missionary is by the Christian rock band 10th Ave. North. It is entitled "Times" and is a dialog between a repentant person and the Lord. These types of songs are why the Lord has really given us the ability to create music. Check it out!