Vortex
Information:
- Source: The Wonders of Music Notebook
- Key: C Major
- Measures: 48
- Parts: Cello and Piano
- Duration: 3:05
- Pages: 4 Pages
“IF the story is true, then, God should’ve made humans in the image of dogs, NOT in his own image. I reckon, it could have worked out better for all of us.“
There is a certain innocence about animals, If you look into their eyes, you’d realise that they know the secret of life. Such is the claim. But most certainly, if we talk specifically about dogs, then, I’m sure we’d agree that they can be more gracious than some people, friendlier than most mortals, and over all, better equip to pledge loyalty than all humans.
I am 52 years old, I’ve never been a proud owner of a dog before. How can I have an opinion on the matter at hand? You may wonder. Well, 4 years ago, I had the great fortune to have met William, and of course his two dogs: Major and Vortex. The connection Vortex and I had was instantaneous, difficult to analyse but very real.
In my life, I have never experienced the need to own a dog in the same way some people do. I did realise, however, there existed an unquestionable happiness in my life in the times Vortex interacted with me. Being around a dog was not a natural activity to me, let alone taking care of one; but I did attend to her needs, and for the last three years of her life, she followed me everywhere.
I didn’t know how to behave in a house where a dog lived, so it is fair to say she “adopted” me. It all sounds tiresome, I know. But I did learn how to take care of her. We created a silent pact. With such gentle manners and friendly disposition, I simply couldn’t say NO to that beautiful black-tongue creature.
There were omissions and misinterpretations along the way, I was surprise to learned Vortex didn’t seem to judge me for my lack of patience if I did not understand her signals, my shortage of energy at the end of a long day, or the absence of time because of work. Later I learned, that is part of all dog’s attribute; let me repeat that: DOGS DO NOT JUDGE!. And regardless of the circumstance, they simply and unconditionally embrace you.
Unlike Humans, dogs do not care about gender, religion, race, social status, age, language, nationality. Dog owners do not experience all the “bullshit” and inconsistencies than otherwise, they might encounter with their fellow humans. There is no wonder, people are crazy about dogs. Marylin Monroe once said something along these lines: Dogs don’t bite me, humans DO.
I have never imagined I’d experience kindest, and the deepest, most sincere companionship from a dog in exchange for food, water, treats and walks. It was such a good bargain. Vortex brought an awareness into my life, a kind of perception that made me accept humbly my humanity. However, all good things come to an end, such is life.
The day it was decided she could not handle more suffering due to a nasty cancer in her bones, my heart broke into a million pieces. Although, there’s no right answers to pain and distress, for me, the set of circumstances were a bitter-sweet solace knowing her agonies would cease, in exchange for her life. I cried inconsolably and to no end, certainly, it felt like my existence also stopped that day. What a lousy rainy day that was.
I’ve composed a piece of music that was inspired by the happiness Vortex brought into my life, but I am, also, acknowledging the grief I felt when she was gone. Written in C Major, this work represents that very specific moment when unwanted events in life, without provocation pushes me off balance, reaffirming my knowledge that life is vicious. Although, also knowing that it will always, somehow, gets better. And it does.
While you are listening or playing this piece, I’d invite you to think about the immeasurable contribution animals give to the world we live. We know that in the natural world, killing seems a casual affair. But unlike humans, animals do not seem to abused their instincts nor the environment, and when paying close attention, we realised that, indeed, they do know the secret of life.
Enjoy!