Life Lines - 2026 02 18 - Jenny Arntzen

 

If not now, when? This evening I made the trip across town to Vancouver Folk Song Society, carting along my autoharp, two music stands, and my music charts. I had hoped to be on the list to sing my new song, but it turned out I was too late. The hall was full and I didn't want to sit with my instrument and gear cluttering up the room. I was also feeling embarrassed that I was too late. I left to stow my gear in my car, but by the time I had walked the two blocks to where I was parked, I just loaded everything into the car and headed back home. 

I vowed to myself that I would share this song one way or another, so I pulled myself together with a cup of mint tea and a delicious serving of rhubarb crisp, a give from our neighbours downstairs.

Bolstered and determined, I made this recording of this new song, Life Lines.

In the song, I start by considering the lines of life etched on my face. My reflection in the mirror does not show my view from the inside out. And my view of the outside in, that is an image I barely recognize. I think about what these life lines mean, what they represent. I come to terms with the fact that I am aging. I realize there is no benefit in holding onto regrets or old angers. It is best to move on, find something useful to do.

And always, the sun rises and another day begins. And everyday, I must make sense and have a sense of purpose for what I am going to do with the life that I have this day. I remember a very clear memory I carry to this day. It is summer. I am a child, maybe six years old. We are on a Gulf Island staying at our family cabin. There is a gentle slope down a grassy hill to the cabin. The grass is dry and bleached. It is the height of the summer drought. I am running down the slope and I feel like I can fly. My feet seem to barely touch the ground. I remember the feeling so strongly. Like my body was floating over the burnt, dry grass, my feet barely touching the ground to keep me in the air.

Finally, it is clear to me that my purpose at this stage of my life is to do what I can for the one youngs who are putting their lives together, raising children, starting a business venture, finishing school, putting their own household together, making sense of the life they have at hand.

It is more important than ever that I use what life I have to be a helper, to help young ones on their way. To be a leader, to help build strength in our families and communities. To lead by example, to show what it looks like to lead a creative life, to do creative work, to contribute to fostering hope, innovation, and a new way of life.