Zen Island Discs

When I was younger I listened to a radio programme called Desert Island Discs. A celebrity had to select eight gramophone records to take to a deserted island (and they still do; but perhaps they take CDs with them now?).

I often thought about which pieces of music I would choose.

I suppose the first assumption made in this game is that I am a "celebrity"; that I am important. But, that never seemed to be in any doubt to me! Then the next problem is how to select the music. Should I select things that reflect my personality and ideals (and might influence others and prove what a nice guy I am), or just my favourites? In other words: am I on a radio programme about me or am I actually on the desert island?

Music can be very powerful; it can change my moods quite easily. Some pieces can make me feel sad or angry, some can make me happy, some can make me relax, others make me feel strong and confident and some just have to be danced to. Music helps our memory too. I don't know why but if you asked me to recite one of the scriptures we use in our ceremonies I would struggle, but play the music and the words start to appear!

Actually, I probably don't need to take the records with me, the best bits are in my head. Sometimes just a few words of the lyrics or a few notes of the tune conjure up the essence, just like a pithy Zen saying.

It is a game that is quite easy to play, and I find I don't always choose the same eight pieces of music. It is a bit like writing my own obituary or planning my funeral - "how do I want people to remember me?" It can boost the ego. Or focus the mind - "what really matters in my life?"

Another variation is "When I die which gramophone records will I take with me?" Now that one really does focus the mind. And not just on the records. What about all the other things I have accumulated, and the ideals, and habits, and desires, and ....... Just what will I take with me? Probably the answer is "much the same as I brought with me!" So why do I keep acquiring more and more baggage to take with me?

Mike Horne.