Wednesday, June 16, 2004

Song of the Humpback Whales

When I was about in the 6th grade, I got my first subscription to National Geographic, I still remember that first issue, it even had a record in it, with the "Songs of the Humpback Whale". I loved listening to it, it was one of the strangest sounds to me. It was a weird combo of high- and low-pitched groanings. I remember reading that the scientist that studied them said their songs are noteworthy because these giants of the deep are continually changing them. New patterns are added and old ones eliminated so oveer a period of time the whale actually sings a whole new song. Pretty cool huh, not sure what made me think of this, something about watching the sunrise. I went to Ptown years ago and for some reason I thought of these wonderful creatures, I went on a whale watching tour there, and for some reason I was thinking about them today. Lots of thoughts came to mind, memories many of them. Guess we should be more like these wonderful creatures, composing new songs of praise. Many of us, me included just keep singing "the same old song". I want to sing new songs. That's another reason I love journaling it gives me a new way to give praise. Anyone else out there looking for new ways to express?

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a lovely entry. I have heard the songs of teh Humback Whales and almost cry when I do. Their song touches the deepest part of my heart, probably because the whales sounded like they were crying, like they were lonely. It was a strange song, but beautiful. It's always wonderful -expressing myself in new ways: Songs, poems, crafts, my stories, and prayer. Loved this entry so much. glad I didn't miss it. God bless you. *Barb*

Anonymous said...

Derek, I remember the record of the whales vividly. I actually heard it as I was reading your entry. I also remember those magazines. How strange the memory of those are to me.  I went to Mark's house in Helen a few weeks back and found a ton of them. I sat and looked through them, and it was as if I was back in your brown room with the BIG window looking at them again. I would sit on the floor with the crazy, thick shag carpet, using any reason in the world to just hang out with you. Can you imagine what it is like being in this house that we grew up in every single day? It really is like never growing up. I AM PETER PAN!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I still get the National Geographic and dream of being in all those places!  lol  

Anonymous said...

I watch the National Geographic on cable and it's great...such a learning experience.  Love the song of the humpback whales...hauntingly, beautiful!  Neat entry, D.  gloria