Comments on listening from Karen Johnson, one of my teachers in the Music for Healing and Transition Program:

I've had the opportunity to listen to and observe more than a few students. What jumps out is not the student's musical ability but the ability to achieve unitative listening. That quality of really hearing and responding with what's needed, not just a lot of sound.

So how do you practice intention? Be still, listen, let your intuition talk (for a change.) It doesn't happen overnight, and you do have to wade through some of your own extraneous 'stuff' to get there. Just like learning your instrument doesn't happen overnight. Get to know your instrument, too, by really listening to it! Don't make it do what it's not meant to do, and discover all the abilities it has that you're not yet using. Every instrument isn't for everyone, and every CMP isn't for everyone. Let go of that ego...

I got to hear an MHTP student who's a double-bass player. Now there's an instrument loaded with low tones! The student could make that instrument laugh, sigh, weep, etc. because he knew his instrument and he was tuned in to those emotions regardless of the octave he played in. So, it does all come back to the art of the healer. We each have 'gifts' but none of us has 'em all...

The harp, double-bass, sharpsicle, oboe, flute, dulcimer, etc. each has a special quality that'll fit some better than others. When you practice your instrument, also practice your intention. Play for what's around you, even in your own home!

karen

November 5, 2004

To: Dr. William Dalton Hospital Director Moffittt Cancer Center & Research Institute 12902 Magnolia Drive Tampa FL 33612

Dear Dr. Dalton:

I wanted to take a few moments to express our gratitude to you and the entire Moffitt Cancer Institute. Both myself, and my dear Dora, have benefited from your generosity, sincerity, and support.

There are several programs that helped us tremendously that I wanted to share with you. They are the Arts in Medicine Program, the Our Stories Program, the Caregiver Support Group, and the Music for Healing and Transition program by Mr. Lloyd Goldstein. All of these programs truly helped me heal and realize the important things in life. In my next journey of a bone marrow transplant, I will readily welcome these programs and the gentle spirits of those that participate, sponsor and run them to my hospital room Programs such as these helped both Dora and me relax prior to my surgery and gain a more soothing perspective and bathe in a calm spirituality that truly benefited my recovery.

Please accept this letter as a thank you to all of you at Moffitt and those on my medical team, including those who volunteer their time to make those with illnesses such as min feel loved and cared for. I truly enjoyed all of the program, as did Dora. I also enjoyed the pet therapy as well. I believe that the more people these treasures and uplifting moments are shared with, the better all patients will be. I patiently await our next visit Dr. Dalton, and wish you and your staff a pleasant day.

Thank you,

Enrique Fernandez

Good Morning, Lloyd,

I just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed your discussion of Music for Healing and Transition last night. It was truly informative and very enjoyable. We really enjoyed the music, too.

The group felt the discussion of the purpose and strategies used in music for healing was helpful. Several of us talked later about how we might use this with some of our care receivers---using music that the care receivers enjoy with different tempos and styles. It was also interesting to hear how yoga has been beneficial to you in centering and relaxation. We find that many of us spend a few minutes in the car before we go in to see our care receivers, relaxing and "centering" and meditating or praying.

I especially want to thank you taking time to share your special and sensitive gift with us and for helping us to think "outside the box" for ways to support and help our care receivers.

Sincerely,

Sue Ellen Lee

Just wanted to thank you for helping me live another day with my grand kids. Every time I spend time with them and am able to partake with them I remember you guys. If a thousand sea stars were to wash up on shore why bother throwing some back into the water so the can live another day? Because it would matter to the one you have in your hand. This is how I spent Thanksgiving after I got out of the hospital.

Have a nice Christmas and New Years. Thanks for everything!

Dora and Henry Room 530

From a patient’s parents at the Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa FL

Dear Lloyd:

On behalf of our daughter, Loretta Lynn, we wish to thank you for the beautiful music you played for her. The therapeutic value is great. She has a pump allowing her to self medicate when the pain is bad. All afternoon she had been self medicating every 12 minutes or less. During the time you played she only medicated herself twice in the 45 minute span!!! (This is half as often.) What a wonderful service this is. Thank you, thank you.

From her parents,

Mr. And Mrs. R. L. Sweeney Billoxi, Mississippi