"This place is just a shell, external/ You're a warrior, Fighting for your soul/ Re-unite them return the princess to her king/ and then she'll be filled with joy/ like the days of her youth." -Matisyahu; "Warrior"
Reggae and Jazz is all I've been able to listen to while mourning my grandma's death. Her funeral was Monday. We tossed roses down onto her casket before they covered her grave up with dirt. Doves were released as we said our final goodbye. I've been living through very real moments... some force me to confront life in a raw, inescapable, way. It's been emotionally and spiritually heavy. While at the same time, completely surreal. I felt honored to help my family make her funeral arrangements. Glad we could pay such beautiful respects. Also, very therapeutic. Although, it was odd going shopping with my sister, mom, and cousin for an outfit to bury my grandma in. We found something perfect. I ironed it in the morning before dropping it off at the mortuary. A place that has a haunting stench of formaldehyde.
In sharing all this I hope to paint a very real picture. This experience continues to alter my perspective. As I continue mourning, I can't stomach just any type of music. I tried listening to music on the radio but kept getting annoyed with themes of materialism and irresponsibility. Sure I'm just in a sensitive place right now. Reggae has helped me through this extremely difficult time. Songs about spirituality, love, finding deeper meanings... this is exactly what's on my mind and needs feeding.
Matisyahu speaks my language in so many of his songs. It's comforting to relate with. Recently, I've been finding myself playing Matisyahu's "Warrior" on repeat. I remembered having a panic attack before my grandma's open casket/wake. I was on a walk crying, feeling overwhelmed. I listened to "Warrior" and felt a sense of peace. I knew that I had to stay strong and "return the princess to her king" the way she deserves.
Below, is "Warrior" LIVE! This version is so pretty and melodic. I couldn't find any other live performance that captured exactly what this one did. P.S. Don't know why it has Spanish subtitles but here's an opportunity to brush up on your español!
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