Harmonizing With the Past — A Christmas Reflection on Embracing Our Younger Selves

I recently stumbled upon a YouTube video that got me thinking more than any Christmas jingle could.

And just so you know, I’m not a religious guy.

More of an agnostic, but that’s beside the point.

The video you’ll see below features Aled Jones, one of the most successful boy sopranos from the 80s, performing a duet with a recording of his younger self, singing ‘Ave Maria.’ It was a lovely performance, but it was more than just a showcase of talent.

It was a beautiful metaphor for reconciliation not just with others, but with ourselves.

This time of the year takes us back to our roots, to family gatherings where the past and present sit side by side at the dinner table. And memories of our younger selves also surface more vividly.

This duet is a reminder of that journey in life.

We tend to remember our mistakes (and regrets) and are usually the harshest critics of our past selves:

• How could I do [insert awful thing] to my friend/partner?

• Why was I so shy and awkward?

• I should’ve been a better student at school.

• I never had the guts to tell that person how I felt about them.

And probably the list is endless.

Isn’t it weird how Christmas brings out that child in us?

And this reflection also comes with the memories and emotions attached to that child.

For some, it gets a cozy feeling, for others, more like a cringe.

However, this particular duet made me realize that we can embrace our younger selves, with all our imperfections, and create something wonderful out of it like music.

We can start by hugging that younger version of ourselves, acknowledging where we started, and seeing how far we’ve come. Just like Aled Jones, who’s reaching through time, harmonizing with his past, and in doing so, creating something even more beautiful.

It’s a powerful message, especially now, when families reunite and the past is ever-present.

It’s a time to make peace with our past.

To embrace both the good and the bad.

Recognize how those experiences have shaped us.

As we gather with our loved ones, let’s remember to extend that compassion inward.

Let’s reconcile with our younger selves, recognize what we’ve done throughout life, and allow ourselves to continue evolving.

Just like Aled Jones’ duet, let’s harmonize the past with the present.

Remember, every part of our past has contributed a note to the song of who we are today.

Embrace every note, every rest, and every crescendo.