You know what it means to naturally command authority. Whether you were born into greatness, or had greatness thrust upon you, others expect you to take charge. 

Your worldview is often exactly that i.e. worldly. Where others think about the daily necessities of life, you’re often preoccupied with global issues or larger causes.

The music you listen to is either classic and traditional, associated with rituals you uphold, or designed to fuel a movement you believe in. You’re also familiar with, or interested in, foreign cultures and their musical tapestry.

Sometimes, the need to champion your movement, or uphold your traditions, can alienate you from music that lives in polar opposite realms. You may even turn your nose up at such music, thinking it “lesser than” what you were raised to listen to.

With the passage of time, or the gathering of life’s experiences, you’ll discover the value of all music - why it exists, and how it serves its inventors or fans. You’ll begin to see where and how your musical tastes overlap with others, and eventually expand your own sonic tapestry.

I was born and raised in a Buddhist family, and was in part named after the Buddha’s mother - Queen Maha Maya. Perhaps it was that regal vibe, then, that led to my first leadership role in, of all places, kindergarten. I had to manage my classmates whenever my teacher was called away, and my five-year-old self had to figure things out in a hurry.

Over time, more leadership roles came my way, and my ego lapped it all up. Though I developed a reputation for creating order out of chaos, it took a little longer to become a trusted peacemaker. The former skill could remain technical, but the latter had to be relational. And the more diverse the groups, the more I had to learn to relate. Then, work and life planted me in a whole other country and continent, which made relationship-building even more bewildering.

Now, years later, I have a firmer grip on what makes my chosen home tick, and I’m building heartfelt connections. Though I am, and always will be, a work in progress, I’ve learned how important it is to hit the right note with others.