I'm About To Change Your Day
Simple joy to get you through.
Give me four minutes and 58 seconds, and I’ll make your day better.
It doesn’t matter what your politics may be; this week has been tragic. Hell, the last few months have been tragic. Children, politicians, pundits, and recent immigrants: people and beloved pets killed for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
You may have strong opinions about these people, but I’m going to draw a line in the sand: no one deserves to die the way they did. No one.
I am not here to provide some deep analysis of this moment in time, but I am writing today to remind us of our shared humanity.
Just give me four minutes and 58 seconds.
The video features three Johannesburg siblings, aka Biko’s Manna. They share their talent and joy in a decidedly low-fi, grainy video. Biko (age 16) sings while her brother Manna (age 13) accompanies her on guitar. Mfundo (age 8) does his own thing but pops in with a surprise at just the right time.
There are three things I want you to notice, three subtle moments that remind us how we can hold each other despite our differences.
At 1:29, watch them honor each other’s contributions (which could also be interpreted as interruptions)
At 2:02, watch Manna authentically celebrate and acknowledge his sister.
At 2:11, see how Mfundo’s unexpected gift adds texture and depth to whatever it is that’s going on.
At 3:44, a beautiful moment of connection that only music can provide.
At 4:48, the joy of being together.
This Bee Gees cover is also so right for today. Don’t just observe, listen to the words.
How deep is your love?
I really mean to learn
'Cause we're living in a world of fools
Breaking us down when they all should let us be
We belong to you and me.
Especially today, take care of your hearts.