Musings of My Today is the digital home for my varied interests. I find joy in exploring the intersections of creativity and technology, analyzing the philosophical depth of music, and sharing my personal projects and learnings. This blog is a reflection of a mind in constant motion, a space to document discoveries and invite thoughtful discussion.
Driving down FM2181 the other day, I was met with a breathtaking sight: a field ablaze with the vibrant colors of the Texas Paintbrush! These stunning wildflowers, scientifically known as Castilleja indivisa, are a true sign that spring has arrived in Texas.
The Texas Paintbrush isn’t just a pretty face; it’s also a fascinating example of nature’s ingenuity. What appear to be its petals are actually modified leaves called bracts. The true flowers are the less showy, greenish-yellow tubes that peek out from within these colorful bracts. These bracts come in a range of colors, from the classic reddish-orange to occasional variations of yellow, pink, or even white.
Another interesting fact about the Texas Paintbrush is that it’s a hemiparasite, also known as a partial parasite. While it can photosynthesize its own food, it also taps into the roots of nearby plants, especially grasses, to supplement its intake of water and nutrients. This doesn’t seem to harm the host plants significantly, and it allows the Paintbrush to thrive even in less fertile soils.
These vibrant blooms play a crucial role in attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, ensuring the continuation of their species and contributing to the overall health of our ecosystems. While the Bluebonnet holds the title of Texas State Flower, the Texas Paintbrush is undoubtedly a beloved wildflower that paints our landscapes with beauty each spring, typically from March to May.
An Exploration of Tool’s “Pneuma” and the Lyric “We Are All One Spark, Sun Becoming”
While listening to my Tool – Fear Inoculum album this morning, I became fixated on the track Pneuma and took a deep-dive into the underlying meaning of the lyrics in an engaging conversation with Gemini Advanced, Flash 2.0 Deep Research. The phrase “We Are All One Spark, Sun Becoming” was repeated several times and was especially of interest, the catalyst that sparked this research, which lead to this post. This introspective was timely with today being Easter Sunday and also April 20, 2025. Please enjoy each section equally and let me know your thoughts in the comments!
1. Introduction: Unpacking the Essence of “Pneuma”
Tool, a band revered for their intricate musical compositions and intellectually stimulating lyrics, has carved a unique niche in the progressive metal landscape. Their fifth studio album, “Fear Inoculum,” released in 2019 after a prolonged thirteen-year hiatus, was a highly anticipated event, signifying a new chapter in their sonic journey.1 The album, met with considerable critical acclaim, showcases the band’s signature blend of complex rhythms, atmospheric soundscapes, and Maynard James Keenan’s evocative vocal delivery.2 Among the album’s standout tracks is “Pneuma,” a composition that not only exemplifies Tool’s musical prowess but also delves into profound philosophical and spiritual concepts.2 Central to the lyrical narrative of “Pneuma” is the recurring phrase, “we are all one spark, sun becoming”.6 This lyric appears multiple times throughout the song, underscoring its thematic significance and inviting listeners to contemplate its deeper meaning.6 It encapsulates core ideas of unity, inherent potential, and the transformative nature of existence, hinting at the rich philosophical and spiritual undercurrents that permeate the entirety of “Pneuma.” This report endeavors to dissect the meaning embedded within this profound lyric by examining its context within the song, exploring its symbolism, investigating its connections to philosophical and spiritual thought, and considering its place within the broader thematic framework of “Fear Inoculum.”
2. The Lyrical Landscape of “Pneuma”
To fully appreciate the significance of the lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming,” it is essential to consider its placement within the complete lyrical structure of “Pneuma.” The song commences with the lines: “We are Spirit bound to this flesh. (We) go round one foot nailed down. (But) Bound to reach out and beyond this flesh, become Pneuma. We are will and wonder, bound to recall – remember. We are Born of One Breath, One Word. We are all One Spark, Sun becoming. Child, wake up. Child, release the light. Wake up now, child. Spirit Spirit bound to this flesh, this guise, this mask, this dream. Wake up, remember – We are born of One Breath, One Word. We are all One Spark, Sun becoming. Pneuma. Reach out and beyond. Wake up, remember. We are born of One Breath, One Word. We are all One Spark, eyes full of wonder”.6 These lyrics, consistent across various sources 7, paint a picture of humanity as spiritual beings tethered to the physical realm. The phrase “one foot nailed down” suggests a limitation or constraint imposed by our physical existence, while the desire to “reach out and beyond this flesh, become Pneuma” implies a yearning for transcendence or a higher state of being. The target lyric, “We are all One Spark, Sun becoming,” appears twice in the main body of the song and once at the conclusion with a slight variation, “eyes full of wonder”.6 Notably, it consistently follows the line “We are born of One Breath, One Word,” establishing a potential link between a shared origin or fundamental principle and the subsequent transformation into a sun-like entity. The repetition of this phrase underscores its importance within the song’s narrative, positioning it as a central tenet of the message being conveyed. The idea that humanity originates from “One Breath, One Word” suggests a unified source, and the subsequent declaration that “we are all One Spark, Sun becoming” builds upon this foundation, indicating a shared essence and a common trajectory of transformation. The variation at the end, with “eyes full of wonder,” might signify a state of realization or enlightenment achieved through this process of becoming.
3. Decoding “We Are All One Spark, Sun Becoming”: Existing Interpretations
The lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming” has resonated deeply with listeners, prompting various interpretations within online communities and analyses. Discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight perspectives centered on interconnectedness, a sense of collective consciousness, and the potential for spiritual awakening.7 Some interpretations draw a direct connection to the song’s title, “Pneuma,” linking it to the ancient Greek philosophical concept of the “breath of life” or a universal world-spirit.10 This viewpoint suggests that the lyric refers to the shared spiritual essence that binds all individuals, implying that each person is a fragment or manifestation of this unified cosmic energy. The phrase “sun becoming” is often seen as a powerful metaphor for spiritual evolution, representing the journey towards enlightenment or a higher state of consciousness.7 One Reddit user offered an interpretation where “sun becoming” is linked to planetary energy and a broader spiritual awakening, suggesting that we are cosmic energy radiating on this planet.9 A more synthesized view from these online discussions suggests that the line emphasizes a fundamental interconnectedness, where the “one spark” signifies a shared origin and essence, implying that despite individual differences, all beings are part of the same universal consciousness or energy.10 The “sun becoming” aspect further illustrates this by evoking the image of individual sparks merging and growing into a radiant whole, akin to individual rays forming the sun.10
Beyond online communities, professional analysis has also shed light on the meaning of this lyric. A licensed therapist, Taylor Palmby, in her analysis of “Pneuma,” interprets the lyric as a message about the inherent “spark of light” residing within every individual.11 According to this perspective, this inner spark is not isolated but rather a part of a larger, universal energy, which is likened to the sun. The “becoming” aspect of the lyric signifies a continuous process of evolution and the release of one’s inner potential.11 Palmby emphasizes the universality of this inner light, asserting that it exists in everyone regardless of their personal struggles or feelings of darkness, and connects it directly to the concept of “pneuma” as the vital spirit or soul.11 This interpretation adds a psychological and potentially therapeutic dimension to the lyric, suggesting a message of hope and self-empowerment that arises from recognizing our inherent worth and potential. The therapist notes that the song serves as a reminder that this light is as fundamental to being human as breath itself, and that even the experience of pain does not diminish this inner light but rather informs the unique way in which it can shine.11
4. The Symbolism of the “Spark”
The word “spark” carries a rich symbolic weight across various philosophical, spiritual, and cultural traditions. In many contexts, a spark represents the initial stage of creation, a small yet potent fragment of a larger whole, or the very essence of something greater.13 It often symbolizes potential, the nascent beginning of an idea, existence, or a transformative process. Furthermore, a spark can signify a direct connection to a divine source. The concept of a “divine spark” is particularly prevalent in numerous spiritual philosophies, suggesting that each individual soul or consciousness carries within it a piece of the divine or a fundamental connection to the ultimate reality.13 The text equates the human soul to a “spark or fragment of the Ever-Existent Oversoul,” reinforcing this idea of a divine origin and a connection to a larger, spiritual consciousness.13 In the oldest symbolism, a circle enclosing a dot represents the primal womb containing the “spark of creation,” akin to the Hindu concept of the bindu, which is described as the spark of masculine life within the cosmic womb.13 This imagery underscores the notion of a spark as the genesis of existence and the embodiment of inherent potential. The German word for “soul,” “ziel,” is linked to the “fiery light of God,” further implying the soul’s nature as a divine spark of light.13 Similarly, the English word “soul” is suggested to have originated from “is ol,” meaning “the essence or light of God,” reinforcing the connection between the soul and a divine spark of illumination.13 Therefore, within the context of the lyric, the “one spark” metaphor effectively conveys the idea of individual uniqueness and potential while simultaneously suggesting a shared origin and an intrinsic connection to something far greater than ourselves, hinting at a common divine essence that unites all beings.
5. The Transformative Power of “Sun Becoming”
The image of the “sun” holds profound and multifaceted symbolism across mythology, spirituality, and alchemy. Universally, the sun is often seen as the great and central symbol of the Higher Self and God manifest.13 It is widely regarded as the primary source of light, life, and energy within the soul and the cosmos.13 In various spiritual traditions, the sun symbolizes enlightenment, truth, and the ultimate reality, representing the radiant and illuminating power of divine consciousness.13 Alchemically, the sun corresponds to gold, the most perfect of metals, representing perfection, incorruptibility, and the divine spark inherent in humanity.14 The concept of Sol in homine in alchemy refers to the invisible essence of the celestial Sun that nourishes the inner fire of humankind, which can be conceptually linked to a spark of divine energy or potential within each person.13 In Freemasonry, the sun symbolizes a Brother’s quest for truth and enlightenment, as well as light, wisdom, and the divine spark.17 Even in poetry, the sun is often used as a symbol of God, enlightenment, and the arbiter of time.18
The word “becoming” adds another crucial layer of meaning to the lyric. It implies a dynamic process, a continuous movement from one state to another, rather than a static condition.20 “Becoming” suggests evolution, growth, and the gradual unfolding of inherent potential over time. Philosophically, the concept of “becoming” is often contrasted with “being,” emphasizing the fluid and transformative nature of reality over a fixed or immutable existence.20 In the context of the lyric, “sun becoming” signifies a continuous journey towards enlightenment, a gradual realization of our inherent “spark” and its potential to shine brightly, ultimately reaching a state of profound illumination and transformative power akin to the sun. The inclusion of “becoming” reframes the idea of unity not as a fixed state but as an ongoing process of growth and realization, imbuing the message with a sense of dynamism and enduring hope.
Table 1: Sun Symbolism Across Cultures and Philosophies
Culture/Philosophy
Symbolic Meaning
Supporting Snippet IDs
Universal
Higher Self, God manifest, source of Light and Life
13
Spirituality
Enlightenment, truth, ultimate reality
13
Alchemy
Gold, perfection, incorruptibility, divine spark in man
14
Freemasonry
Truth, enlightenment, light, wisdom, divine spark
17
Hindu
Soul of the Universe (Surya)
13
Manichean
Same entity as Mani, Buddha, Zoroaster, Christ
13
Swedenborg
Divine love and wisdom (in reference to the Lord)
13
St. Gregory
Illumination of truth
13
Egyptian
Horus (rising), Ra (zenith), Osiris (setting); right eye
13
Greek
Eye of Zeus (Helios Apollo)
13
Orphism
Father of All, great generator and nourisher, ruler of the world, heart of the universe
13
Islamic
Eye of Allah, all-seeing, all-knowing, reflection of the Sun beyond the veil, heart of the universe
13
Japanese (Shinto)
Goddess Amaterasu, Ruler of Heaven, source of emperors
15
Christian
God the Father, Christ “the sun of righteousness”
13
Alchemic (Sol niger)
Prime matter, the unconscious in its base state
13
6. Philosophical and Spiritual Resonance
The lyric “we are all one spark” carries strong echoes of various philosophical concepts, particularly monism, which posits that all of reality is ultimately composed of a single, fundamental substance or principle.23 This idea of underlying unity is further emphasized by the concept of interconnectedness, often explored through the lens of “interbeing.” This philosophy suggests that all things are deeply interdependent and co-exist in a state of mutual reliance, where the existence of one entity is intrinsically linked to the existence of all others.24 The “sun becoming” aspect of the lyric finds resonance in process philosophy, an approach that identifies processes, changes, and shifting relationships as the primary reality of everyday living, emphasizing the transient nature of existence and the continuous state of becoming.22 The lyric’s message also aligns with spiritual ideas of a universal consciousness, a foundational awareness from which all individual consciousnesses emanate. The phrase “sun becoming” can be interpreted as a powerful metaphor for spiritual awakening, the profound process of realizing one’s true nature and inherent potential for enlightenment. This journey towards enlightenment, a central theme in many diverse spiritual traditions, mirrors the transformative aspect of “becoming,” suggesting a continuous striving towards a higher state of being and understanding. One interpretation found online even links the lyrics to Gnostic beliefs, where “wake up from this dream” refers to the physical world as an illusion, and enlightenment is the ultimate goal.9 The infusion of spiritual and metaphysical elements within Tool’s lyrics, as noted by a therapist analyzing the song, further underscores these connections.12
7. “Pneuma” within the Context of “Fear Inoculum”
The themes explored in “Pneuma,” particularly the central lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming,” are intricately interwoven with the overarching themes of Tool’s “Fear Inoculum” album. The album’s title itself, “Fear Inoculum,” suggests a primary focus on confronting and ultimately overcoming fear.2 The message of unity and the inherent “spark of light” within everyone, as conveyed in “Pneuma,” can be understood as a powerful antidote to fear. By recognizing our shared essence and potential, we can diminish the sense of isolation and vulnerability that often fuels fear. Furthermore, the band members have indicated that the album delves into themes of aging, wisdom, and coming to terms with mortality.1 The concept of “sun becoming” can be interpreted as a metaphor for the wisdom gained through the journey of life and the potential for spiritual growth and illumination as we mature. The interconnectedness emphasized in the lyric also resonates with the broader idea of human connection and shared experience, which can serve as a vital counterpoint to feelings of fear and isolation. One online discussion proposes that the album, when listened to in a reversed order, reveals a narrative where humanity needs to overcome self-centeredness to realize their interconnectedness, with “Pneuma” representing the acceptance of being more than just our physical bodies.32 Another interpretation views “Pneuma” as a reminder of our shared origin and the necessity of awakening to this fundamental unity.33 The exploration of esoteric and transcendental themes in “Pneuma,” as noted by one analysis, aligns perfectly with the introspective and profound nature of the entire “Fear Inoculum” album.4
8. The Lyric’s Contribution to the Song’s Meaning
The lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming” serves as a powerful and central component in conveying the overall message and meaning of “Pneuma.” It functions as a profound statement of unity, effectively reminding listeners of their shared origin and deep interconnectedness on a fundamental, perhaps even spiritual, level. The metaphor of the “spark” offers a message of inherent hope and untapped potential, suggesting that within each individual resides a radiant core capable of transformative growth and profound realization. The subsequent image of “sun becoming” implies a continuous and dynamic journey towards enlightenment, a gradual unfolding of our full potential, both as individual beings and as a collective humanity. The song, through this lyric and its surrounding context, encourages a significant shift in perspective, urging listeners to “wake up” and “remember” their true nature as beings of light and interconnectedness.9 The spiritual quality of the song and the deeply poetic nature of the lyrics further amplify the impact of this central message.3 The contemplative and soothing vocal delivery in “Pneuma” complements the introspective nature of the lyric, inviting a deeper engagement with its profound implications.34 Ultimately, this lyric stands as a central pillar of “Pneuma’s” meaning, conveying a multifaceted message of unity, inherent potential, and the transformative journey towards spiritual awakening that resonates with listeners on multiple intellectual and emotional levels. It directly addresses the theme of unity by asserting our shared essence, highlights spiritual awakening through the call to “wake up” and “remember,” and suggests the potential for transcendence through the powerful image of “sun becoming.”
9. Insights from the Creators: Maynard James Keenan and Tool
While explicit, detailed explanations from Maynard James Keenan regarding the specific meaning of the lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming” are not readily available in the provided materials, his broader statements about the song “Pneuma” and the overarching purpose of his music offer valuable contextual understanding. In one instance, Keenan describes “pneuma” as the vital spirit, soul, or creative force, and as a potential release of tension, which aligns with the themes of inner potential and transformative growth suggested by the lyric.35 He also discusses “pneuma” as breath and a means of navigating chaos, implying a connection to inner strength and resilience, qualities that can be associated with the “sun becoming” aspect.36 Keenan has previously articulated his belief in music as a tool for personal growth and healing 37, suggesting that “Pneuma” and its central lyric are intended to facilitate this very process within the listener, encouraging a journey of self-discovery and spiritual realization. However, it is important to acknowledge that Maynard James Keenan is often enigmatic in his pronouncements and may intentionally leave his lyrics open to interpretation, refraining from providing definitive explanations.38 Despite the lack of a direct statement on this specific lyric, Keenan’s emphasis on breath, spirit, release, and healing in relation to “pneuma” provides a framework for understanding the intended message of inner potential and the process of transformation.
10. Cultural and Mythological Echoes
The imagery of a “spark becoming sun” resonates with a rich tapestry of cultural myths, spiritual traditions, and symbolic systems across the globe. The concept of a divine spark residing within humanity is a recurring motif in various spiritual philosophies, including Gnosticism, Kabbalah, and Hinduism, suggesting an inherent connection to a higher power or universal consciousness.9 Sun worship and the profound association of the sun with divinity, enlightenment, and the ultimate source of life and energy are prevalent in numerous ancient cultures.12 For instance, in Freemasonry and alchemy, the sun symbolizes the divine spark and the pursuit of perfection.14 Norse mythology presents the sun as a spark fixed in the sky by the gods.40 Slavic traditions feature Khors, a sun god associated with sparks and the cyclical nature of the sun.39 Even creation myths sometimes depict the sun originating from a spark of a greater cosmic flame.42 The Aztec myth of Nanahuatl, a humble god who sacrifices himself to become the Fifth Sun, illustrates the transformative power associated with the sun’s emergence.43 Early animistic beliefs also recognized a spirit dwelling within the sun, highlighting a primal connection between humanity and this celestial body.44 The idea of transformation and spiritual ascent, moving from a state of potential to one of radiant fulfillment, is a recurring theme in both mythology and various spiritual practices. Therefore, the imagery employed in the lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming” draws upon a deep well of universal human experiences and beliefs concerning divinity, creation, and the continuous journey of spiritual growth and realization.
11. Conclusion: Illuminating the Spark Within
The analysis of the lyric “we are all one spark, sun becoming” within the context of Tool’s “Pneuma” reveals a profound message deeply rooted in concepts of unity, interconnectedness, and the inherent potential for spiritual evolution. The “spark” symbolizes the individual essence and our shared origin, while “sun becoming” represents a dynamic process of growth and transformation towards enlightenment and the realization of our full potential. This message resonates with philosophical ideas of monism and interconnectedness, as well as spiritual concepts of universal consciousness and the journey towards awakening. Embedded within the broader thematic landscape of “Fear Inoculum,” this lyric contributes to the album’s exploration of overcoming fear through unity and embracing the wisdom that comes with age and experience. While direct commentary from Maynard James Keenan on this specific lyric remains somewhat elusive, his statements about the meaning of “pneuma” and the healing power of music provide valuable context. Furthermore, the imagery employed in the lyric finds echoes in diverse cultural myths and spiritual traditions, highlighting its universal resonance. Ultimately, “we are all one spark, sun becoming” stands as a powerful and enduring statement within the rich tapestry of Tool’s musical and lyrical artistry, inviting listeners to contemplate their place within the interconnected web of existence and to recognize the radiant potential that lies within.
Immerse yourself in ‘Echoes of Affinity,’ a curated collection of melodies that resonate with the soul’s deepest yearnings. Each track is a sonic reflection of connection and emotion, weaving together a tapestry of sound that feels intimately familiar. From the uplifting surge of ‘Waves’ to the heartfelt plea of ‘Disarm You,’ this playlist is an ode to the ones who touch our lives, leaving a lasting impression that feels just like you.
‘Echoes of Affinity’ playlist on Spotify
The idea for Echoes of Affinity initially started on Saturday, April 27, 12024 with the intro track, “Feels Like You” on the Feels Like You single by Adventure Club and Codeko released on 27 October 12023. I’d originally first heard this wonderfully produced, get-your-body-moving gem on 24 March 12024 and was added to my 12024-03 March playlist. Yesterday, while listening to my Spotify daylist playlist, the track re-surfaced and immediately inspired a new playlist, anchored by this four-on-the-floor, energetic, danceable, certified banger, with a peppy 174 BPM.
Track two is “Waves” on the Waves single by Zeds Dead, Flux Pavilion, and DeathbyRomy, released on 5 April 12024. I first heard this track on the day it was released and is my #77th most streamed track of the past 6 months. Don’t be caught off guard by the slow build up, the fuzzy, buzzy synths herald the inevitable drop, coming in hot at 1:36. Waves is another four-on-the-floor, energetic, danceable, certified banger, but with a slower 140 BPM.
Track three is “Pleasure Seeker – Virtual Riot Remix” on the Phantasmagorical album by Mr. Bill, released on 19 April 12023. I first encountered this track on its release day and it quickly became a favorite, receiving 12+ streams after the album dropped. This track is a unique blend of melodic elements and heavy bass, creating a dynamic soundscape that keeps you on your toes. With a BPM of 140, it’s a perfect follow-up addition to any high-energy playlist.
Track four is “Not Even Love” on the Not Even Love single by Seven Lions, ILLENIUM, and ÁSDÍS, released on 22 March 12024. I first heard this track on its release day and it immediately struck a chord with me. The beautiful, powerful vocals of the Icelandic Ásdís, combined with the intense drop create an emotional journey that resonates deeply. With a BPM of 130, it’s a great track for both dancing and introspective listening.
Track five is “Atlantis” on the Atlantis / Drift single by Kasbo, Shallou, and BJOERN, released on 29 February 12024. I discovered this track on 5 April 12024 and was instantly captivated by its ethereal soundscapes and soothing melodies. With a slower BPM of 125, it’s the perfect track to wind down to after a long day.
Track seven is “On Forever” on the On Forever single by Flux Pavilion, Excision, and Saint Raymond, released on 15 February 12024. I first heard this track on 28 April 12024 and as a 10+ year fan of Flux Pavilion and being my 35th most streamed artist of all time, I was instantly hooked by its catchy hooks and energetic beats. With a BPM of 145, it’s a track that’s sure to get any party started.
Track eight is “A Better World” on the A Better World single by SLANDER, Trivecta, and Chris Howard, released on 15 March 12024. I first heard this track on 28 April 12024 and was immediately captivated by its hopeful message and uplifting melodies. With a BPM of 145, it’s a track that’s perfect for both dancing and reflective listening.
Track nine is “I Wanna Know” on the Unity album by MitiS, Seven Lions, and Natalie Taylor, released on 9 February 12024. I first heard this track on 10 February 12024 and was instantly drawn to its emotive vocals and powerful drop. With a BPM of 150, it’s a danceable track that’s sure to resonate with any EDM afficionado.
Track eleven is Dawn on the Get Off The Internet album by Eliminate, Flux Pavilion, and meesh, released on 2 February 12024. I first heard this track on the Dawn single the day it was released and was instantly drawn to its unique sound design and energetic beats. With a BPM of 172, it’s a track that’s sure to revive any dance party.
Track twelve is happyending on the Get Off The Internet album by Eliminate, released on 2 February 12024. I first heard this track today, on 28 April 12024 and was immediately captivated by its uplifting melodies, positive energy, and unexpected glitches. With a BPM of 137, it’s a track that’s perfect for both dancing and reflective listening and capstones this emotional journey.
Don’t have Spotify? Try this YouTube playlist version instead!
Februfuzzz is an electronic dance music playlist by Kenneth Henseler. Fuzzy, buzzy synths to warm your heart in frozen Februarys and every other month with 28 days. Synthwave, Electro, Chillwave, Retrowave, EDM, Deep House.
39°F and I’m standing out here on my back patio in shorts, a hoodie and house slippers, equipped only with a pair of binoculars. Was humbling experience seeing the clear night sky with the nearly full lunar eclipse in all its glory, at about 265° West, looking up at about a 45° angle. The full Moon, which had hours earlier, lit up the night, was now muted and tinted in red hues.
Pics from a mobile device can’t do this observation justice… but, thankfully Ray’s Astrophotography YT Channel was running a live stream of the event, and my handy dandy Sky Guide app is useful for some AR screenshots and labeling of the visible objects:
Modern SharePoint is catching on, and sites are looking better than ever right out of the box. With mobile-ready pages and easier editing, customers and partners are starting to ask for it. And as SharePoint 2019 brings the modern experience on premises, the demand is likely to grow even more.
Yet even as sites look better than ever “out of the box”, there are constraints on how they can be customized. Partners and customers who want to completely change the look sometimes run into these boundaries and get frustrated.
The timing of Chevelle releasing their new album, NIRATIAS, on March 5, 2021 and then hearing this song, reminding me of the importance of gravity, was an immeasurable and invaluable coincidence. Texas had just survived a very stressful February, with rolling power blackouts, extended periods of no power, frozen pipes, no running water in our homes and then the associated cleanup efforts. We needed healing. “Piistol Star (Gravity Heals)” reminded me what could bring the healing and as a result, is easily my most favorite track from NIRATIAS!
A major theme I took away from the book “12 Rules for Life” was in order to lead a meaningful life, one should assume as much responsibility as one can possibly handle. Personal responsibility. Financial responsibility. Social responsibility. Community responsibility. Work responsibility. All of these responsibilities are Gravity. As Chevelle points out in this new track, Gravity Heals. Gravity brings meaning. Gravity brings purpose. Gravity grounds you to the earth beneath your feet.
We humans have not yet evolved the necessary features to fly. That’s why Icarus used wax and feathers to fashion a pair of wings. We humans of the late 20th and 21st centuries have learned how to build machines capable of space flight though. With this new technology and ambition, we must also maintain balance. The yin & yang kind of balance. We must remain ever vigilant of the limitation of our wings. Too close to the sun and the wax melts. Then, whether you want to or not, Gravity takes hold and promptly returns you.
I’ll never learn though! Looked right into the sun. Once again. Melted my wings and blinded my eyes. I’ve been cooped up in this house for over a year and wanted to feel the warmth of the sun. I’ll never learn… (as the lyrics go). Well, not with that attitude! I have to keep trying though. Iterate and improve each day. I have to keep taking on more and more responsibilities, increasing the gravity, because it keeps me occupied. It keeps me distracted. It keeps me from looking right into the sun. The gravity keeps my wings intact and my eyes open so I can see the world around me. Gravity keeps me from wanting to escape and losing site of the dangers above and below.
[Verse 1]
Steal these sins and maybe guilty wins
One more cat life left lazy tryst
Keep shaking loose these walls
I found a life in them
Embracing these unknowns
How much we got to lose
[Chorus]
I'll never learn
Looked right into the sun
[Verse 2]
Life ain't easy for you faceless mess
Turn those lights out crazy
Clear the mind of negative ills
Jumping in so fast I confess
Steal that one thing still left to risk
[Bridge]
Gravity, gravity heals
Gravity, gravity heals
[Pre-Chorus]
Keep shaking my own walls
Divide the vitamins
We're facing these unknowns
Now face the things ignored
Not like I sold the world
Not like I stole your best
[Chorus]
I'll never learn
Look right into the sun
I'll never learn
Look right into the sun
[Bridge]
Gravity, gravity heals
Gravity, gravity heals
[Chorus]
I'll never learn
Look right into the sun
I'll never learn
Look right into the sun
I'll never learn
Gravity, gravity heals
Gravity, gravity heals
I'll never learn
Gravity, gravity heals
Gravity, gravity heals
I'll never learn
Gravity, gravity heals
Gravity, gravity heals
Why do you think Chevelle named the track “Piistol Star” with two “i”, considering the Pistol Star is spelled with one? I’ve been researching the answer and still haven’t found one yet. Let me know your thoughts!
Wednesday night, I did not go to bed; had to work on an email migration project that could not be postponed. Of course, we encountered an issue, resulting in the need for me to spend many, many hours doing manual configuration. I was finally able to take a nap around 10am Thursday morning for about 4 hours. Needless to say, my circadian rhythm was severly interrrupted. Thursday night’s sleep was still affected, not being able to fall asleep until 2 or 3am Friday morning. As a result, I had trouble falling asleep Friday night, as well.
I laid in bed, thinking about all the projects I wanted to complete. I’d been wanting to research a millipede we discovered a couple weekends ago in Broken Bow, OK. While reading the Wikipedia article about the millipede having an aposematic colouring to warn that they are toxic, I eventually stumbled upon an article about the word that describes the scent of rain, petrichor. This had absolutely nothing to do with what I had originally wanted to research, but that’s where I found myself. I needed some music to help me fall asleep. Naturally, I took to Spotify to search the word to see if anyone else was clever enough to use it in a song or playlist. Turns out, there were over 10 artists using the name, over 20 albums using the name, and multitudes of playlists using “petrichor”.
I needed to create a unique playlist name. It was also the last day of April, which is a commonly rainy month in North America. I’ve been on an electronic music kick lately, so my new Spotify playlist was born: Persisting Petrichor. Thought it would be a nice alliteration and play on words, considering I ended up using multiple songs and artists of the same name with different songs and electronic music is often repetitive and persisting. The “petrichor” was persisting. The scent of the rain was persisting, as it had been raining for a few days in a row. Aptly named, even if I do say so myself.
We enter my Persisting Petrichor playlist with Petrichor, the smell of rain on his eponymous album Petrichor, the smell of rain with the track “Descent“. This track feels like a good opener, featuring some experimental lingering or persisting sound of that initially-plugged-into-a-guitar-amp feedback, as in the sound that’s hear at the beginning of a session, much how petrichor describes the scent at the beginning of a rain session. It’s just ethereal enough to prep you for the remaining tracks of the list, but doesn’t linger past two minutes. We leave Descent with some fierce, high-pitched strums of the guitar strings, in an almost percussive bell ringing sort of way.
We’re seamlessly cross-faded into a collab featuring QUIET BISON on Tek Genesis‘s album Temp in the track “Petrichor“. Those early Asian monestary bells are the calm before that melodic intro synth preps foreshadows that juicy bass drop, full of experimentation and layers of effects until you beg for a break at the middle of the song.
Here’s the Xystodesmidae millipede we discovered that I was originally researching. Photo taken at the Broken Bow Lake Spillway Overlook in Oklahoma, USA on 4/17/2021.
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