Lessons from Kind of Blue
The Power of Acknowledgement
It’s so simple, isn’t it? Someone holds the door open, and you say, “Thank you.” Someone posts a milestone event or achievement on social media, and you " like” it. You call your folks on a special day. You do this daily, right?
I try, but a new daily practice brings a new depth to my gratitude efforts. I am not just saying “thank you” or “Liking” or calling, but intentionally looking for the good in others, connecting, and communicating appreciation for a specific gift, lesson, or benefit that someone provided to me or another. Connection, acknowledgment, gratitude. To feel it, you must do it.1
The Power of Silence
Ever listened to Miles Davis’ album Kind of Blue? If not, do so now (you’ll thank me later).
Kind of Blue is the best-selling jazz record (ask your parents) of all time. Generally considered the greatest recorded achievement of the iconic artist’s career, it regularly makes any sane critic’s list of the best jazz recordings of all time.
Why?
Bill Evans arrangements? The assembly of seven great artists at the peak of their craft? The sound of the studio or the masterful engineering?
Nope. It’s the use of silence.
Early on, Miles Davis wanted to be like his heroes, Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. He wanted stunning technique and execute notey, fast mercurial solos. But he couldn’t. He recognized his weaknesses and played to his strengths; exquisite tone, impeccable note choice and the use of space.
Silence communicates more profoundly than sound. That’s why it’s so powerful.
The silence between what was said and what's said next defines the meaning of what was said and what’s said next. The listener absorbs what was said and, in the anticipation created by the silence, projects a unique interpretation into the conversation. When the release comes with what’s said next, the conversation has a weight and intentionality it didn’t previously have.
Things are getting real.
It’s an exquisite moment where empathy, understanding, and connection happen. It's where the conversation amongst musicians or with an audience, or between husband and wife, father and son, teacher and student, can shift. Resolutions and/or extended tension, expected and unexpected, happen and advance or alter the conversation and the experience.
The Power of What Comes Next….
Hey, I’d like you to know how much I appreciate that you took the time to read this. Really, it’s very kind. Thank you. It means the world to me.
And, by the way, I’d love to know what's on your mind….
Drop a comment below with a question or reflection.
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Looking for the Good in Others
it's that space between that ideas come through.
Thanks, Scott! I was reminded of a talk by Marin Alsop, one of the few rare women conductors in the world, who discussed the space between notes which creates the symphony. And then remembered the many contemplative practices that focus on the space between thoughts. And now appreciating that I am in the space between stories. Space = Magic :-).