Adena M'lynn's Voice

Life has a way of presenting us with challenges that can leave us feeling desperate, grasping at straws to maintain control. We cling to our expectations, our hopes, and our desires, believing that if we just hold on tight enough, we can force life to bend to our will. But as I've journeyed through my own struggles, I've come to realize that true strength lies not in our ability to cling, but in our willingness to let go. Letting go is a concept that seems counterintuitive. Our instincts tell us to hold tighter, to fight harder, to resist the tide of change that threatens to sweep us away. We fear that surrendering means admitting defeat, that loosening our grip will cause us to lose everything we've fought so hard to keep. But what if letting go is actually the key to finding peace and resilience in the face of life's uncertainties? When we release our desperate grasp on how we think things should be, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. We give ourselves ...

Welcome to the final section of our three-part series on the magical benefits of music. In the first two parts, we explored the advantages of listening to music and the rewards of learning to play an instrument. Now, we will delve into the joys of singing and dancing and how these activities can bring us closer together and provide a sense of unity and connection. Singing and dancing are two of the most natural and instinctive ways in which we express ourselves through music. From the earliest days of human civilization, people have used these activities to celebrate, mourn, and communicate with one another. And today, the benefits of singing and dancing are more relevant than ever. One of the most significant advantages of singing is its ability to improve mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that singing can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and boost mood. It can also provide a sense of belonging and connection, as singing in a group can foster a sense of community and s...

Welcome back to our three-part series on the magical benefits of music. In the first installment, we explored the numerous advantages of simply listening to music. Now, we will delve into the world of playing an instrument and the incredible rewards it can bring. Learning to play an instrument is not only a fun and engaging hobby but also a powerful tool for personal growth and development. Whether you're a child picking up a guitar for the first time or an adult dusting off an old piano, the benefits of playing music are vast and varied. One of the most significant advantages of playing an instrument is its ability to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that playing music can enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It can also increase creativity and imagination, allowing us to think outside the box and approach challenges in new and innovative ways. In addition to its mental benefits, playing an instrument can also improve physical health. The act of pla...

Music has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, and its impact on our lives is undeniable. From soothing our souls to igniting our passions, music has the power to transform our emotions and enhance our well-being. In this three-part series, we will explore the various ways in which music can benefit us, starting with the simple act of listening. Part 1: The Benefits of Listening to Music Listening to music is more than just a leisure activity; it can have a profound effect on our mental and physical health. Research has shown that music can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and even improve our cognitive function. Whether you're listening to your favorite playlist during your commute or enjoying a live concert with friends, the benefits of music are vast and varied. One of the most significant advantages of listening to music is its ability to regulate our mood. Upbeat songs can boost our energy levels and increase our motivation, while slower, more melodic tunes c...

As a 63-year-old woman who has spent years of my life in both federal and state prisons, I've had plenty of time to reflect on the choices that led me to where I am today. For the longest time, I found myself trapped in a cycle of destructive behaviors, unable to comprehend the underlying reasons behind my actions. It was as if I were a puppet, controlled by invisible strings that I couldn't quite grasp. I have missing memories, and only learn of things I did from others. Little did I know that this journey learning my past would be both devastating and liberating. As I peeled back the layers of my experiences, I discovered painful truths that I had long buried. Childhood sexual trauma, unresolved conflicts, and a deep-seated unnamed fear had all played a role in shaping my decisions and behaviors. Facing these realities head-on is like staring into a shattered mirror, each fragment reflecting a different aspect of my shattered self. I began to understand that my experiences, n...

As I listen to the song "Dust in the Wind," I can't help but reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the transformative power of finding hope in Christ. Before I knew Jesus, I often felt like I was merely "dust in the wind" - insignificant, temporal, and adrift in a vast, meaningless world. I would "close my eyes, only for a moment," and it seemed like life was slipping away, like sand through my fingers. "All my dreams" would "pass before my eyes," but they felt like mere "curiosities" - insubstantial and ultimately unfulfilling. I sought meaning and purpose in the things of this world - relationships, achievements, possessions. But no matter how much I accumulated or accomplished, it all seemed to "crumble to the ground." It was like trying to build a castle out of dust, only to watch it blow away in the wind. Deep down, I knew that "all we do" was futile, but I "refused to see" it, cling...