How do beliefs shape our reality?
Machine Head is an American heavy metal band formed in 1991 by vocalist/rhythm guitarist Robb Flynn, who remains the only original member of the band. A drummer friend of mine introduced me to their music, and I was immediately drawn to the raw energy of their tracks, seamlessly blending aggression with melodic elements. One song that particularly stood out to me was Halo. Its lyrics explore religion and the dangers of blind faith, a theme that resonated deeply with me. At the time, I was also heavily into Dream Theater, whose long and intricate compositions had already shaped my musical preferences. The nine-minute runtime of Halo allowed its message to unfold powerfully, making me reflect on the nature of belief, fanaticism, and the question of God’s existence.
Having received a Catholic education, I was taught that there was only one true God, yet as someone of Chinese ancestry, I also found myself praying in Buddhist temples. This contrast raised questions in my mind from an early age. If different religions claim to hold the ultimate truth, then what determines which one is right? And more importantly, why have religion and politics dictated human history, often leading to the worst massacres the world has ever seen? Even today, wars and conflicts continue because some people hold onto their belief systems so rigidly that they cannot entertain any alternative perspectives.
Neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to adapt and change, plays a crucial role in our capacity for open-mindedness. The environment we grow up in shapes our thoughts, and the earlier and more forcefully we are indoctrinated, the harder it becomes to break free. Many of us walk through life carrying beliefs that are not our own but were imposed upon us. Without questioning them, we risk being trapped in a mental framework that limits our ability to see beyond what we have been taught.
Can we truly move forward without confronting our past?
Another song from Machine Head that struck a chord with me is Deafening Silence. The track carries a deeply emotional weight, resonating with those who have experienced pain, loss, or trauma. One way to interpret the lyrics is as a reminder that we must continue moving forward, regardless of the past we carry. Yet, without acknowledging our traumas, they have a way of resurfacing, demanding to be faced.
Coming to terms with our past experiences, particularly those from childhood, is essential for healing. This does not necessarily mean forgiving everything, but at the very least, it requires making peace with what cannot be changed. Holding on to resentment only fuels a seed of hatred within us, harming no one but ourselves.
While some people manage to process their struggles on their own, many of us find it difficult to separate our emotions from our self-identity. The experiences we go through shape us, but they do not define us. Seeking an external perspective—whether through a trusted friend, a therapist, or even art like music—can be incredibly beneficial. The key is finding someone who listens without judgment, creating space for genuine reflection and growth.
What about you? Have you ever experienced a moment when music or art challenged your beliefs or helped you process something from your past? Let’s discuss in the comments.
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