The Last Song Played on the Titanic
I woke this morning thinking about the musicians who played on the deck of the titanic as it was sinking. I have no idea why but that thought led to more thoughts about why we do what we do, and that apparently has now developed into a new UP article. Maybe more like a hypnogogic ramble than an article.
From what I know of the story, beyond the famous film scene most all of us are familiar with, the ensemble was a small 8-man string / salon orchestra hired by White Star Line to play light music in lounges. Many survivors had reported that Wallace Harley, the band leader, led his musicians to the top deck where they assembled and continued to play as the massive ship slipped into the ocean.
Why?
Did they do this because music would solve something? Because they were under contract to play?
Or did they do it because in a moment where everything was out of their control, this was the one thing they could still offer.
The “why the band kept playing” is the part of this infamous story that doesn’t get enough attention.
We talk about the nobility or romance or tragedy.
But when a situation is already collapsing, trying to “fix” it is often the wrong move.
The more human move may simply be to offer what you know how to give.
In our lived reality right now, smaller ships are sinking all the time.
Projects. Relationships. Companies. Health.
Plans that were certain yesterday, now gone today.
We don’t get to choose every iceberg.
But we always get to choose our offering.
Your offering might be:
Clarity in chaos. Calm breathing. Honest language. Humor. A unique skill.
The ability to hold one person steady.
Whatever it is, it’s yours.
And offering it is an act of agency. Of response-ability.
Meaning is not tied to the outcome.
Meaning is tied to what you bring to the moment.
Outcomes are determined by physics, systems, engines, markets, and luck.
Offerings are determined by you.
When the circumstance turns and you realize you can’t control the end…
don’t panic.
don’t freeze.
don’t scream for dry land.
Just ask:
“What is still mine to give?”
And give that. Even as you take that last breath.
Or maybe I’m totally off and simply had too much hot sauce in my soup last night…
About UP:
Promoting quality content that cracks open the mind and sparks curiosity. Standing Cyclist presents Useful Possibilities (UP), spotlighting extraordinary teachers and leaders, athletes and activists, researchers and writers, filmmakers and engineers, and their groundbreaking projects. UP recognizes individuals and teams who raise awareness and drive innovation in areas such as health and wellness, environmental science, spirituality, personal growth, and human rights. We celebrate those who promote unity, tolerance, respectful collaboration, mindful living, and the [responsible] use of technology, social media, and modern marketing tools. Honoring people and content that inspire us to be the very best versions of ourselves.
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