I particularly wanted to comment on the use of music for contemplation. As a Carmelite, I’ve been criticized (sometimes harshly) for using music in my meditations, which sometimes lead to contemplation. “You can’t hear ‘the still, small voice’ if you’re being bombarded with ‘noise’!” I’ve learned not to respond to the critics. I know the difference between music that leads my soul toward God, and noise. I’ve been surrounded with music all my life. I am bereft without it, to the point where I will find myself humming or singing. Thank you for “confirming” for me that music can and does lead us to God.

“(S)he who sings, prays twice.”