"Be valiant, princely,
Be active, exceedingly bold,
Be ready, fresh and comely!"
__ Lachlann Mor MacMnuirich,
"Battle Exhortation to Clan Donald"
Before armies set forth on expeditions, and on the eve of battle, bardic poets sang to encourage warriors and to give heart to the fearful. Armies also went into battle with their musicians to encourage them. Music is still very much a shield and sword in our own age. Though few of us go into conflict with sharp-edged weapons, we still go into danger with better heart when music accompanies us. The songs that come unconsciously to our lips when we are in need of comfort, courage or new heart are always very significant. Their words and themes are often either akin to our own situation in that very moment or able to shield us from the danger ahead.
Recognizing and seeking out the songs and music that support us in such times is a wonderful way of being prepared. We can gather our own repertoire of music, ready to serve us in need: the battle songs that arm us with courage as we go toward challenge, the soothing songs that restrain our fears, the shielding songs that speak of our deep resourcefulness and that set danger at naught, the songs of spiritual exhortation that urge our sacred allies to accompany us. All these songs can go with us wherever we are. The music that is our own sword and shield derives from strong sources of inspiration - from the deep core of meaning that moves us to joy and new heart.
"Begin to recognize and gather your own repertoire of soul-strengthening music. Which songs do you use for different occasions?"
[From: "The Celtic Spirit" by Caitlin Matthews]
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