During my visit to Toronto, Tanmay and his warm, welcoming family took me on a day trip to the Blue Mountain Resort. The destination was lovely — but it was the musical journey that stayed with me long after the ride was over.
In their car, I discovered a delightful family ritual: “One Song Each.”
With deep respect for everyone present, the music system played one song per person, in turn. Whether it was the two-year-old’s favorite rhyme, granny’s golden oldie, the parents’ nostalgic hit, or the guest’s surprise pick (me!) — everyone got their moment in the melody.
Laughter filled the car as we shared music and memories. With every track, we got a bit more familiar with each other’s worlds, tastes, quirks, and stories behind the songs.
By the time we reached Blue Mountain, we had not only driven through the scenic countryside but also through each other’s soundtracks. We weren’t just familiar with a variety of songs — we were a little more familiar with each other.
What touched me most was what this simple act revealed:
✨ Respect — every person’s choice mattered, no matter how young or old.
✨ Patience — you waited for your turn without complaint.
✨ Appreciation — you listened, even if the song wasn’t your taste, simply because it brought joy to someone else.
When we reached Blue Mountain, the music paused — not just the soundtrack, but the shared rhythm we had built on the way. We stepped out, laughed, explored, took in the crisp mountain air, and scenic views.
But what made me smile even more was what happened on the return journey.
As soon as we got back into the car, someone gently reminded, “It’s my turn now.”
No one had forgotten. The unspoken order of songs and turns had stayed intact, as if respect had quietly taken root in all our minds. And so, the journey continued — not just back home, but deeper into a space of mutual regard and joyful sharing.
Sometimes, life lessons come without lectures.
Just a car full of people, one song at a time.
In that car, music wasn’t just played — it was shared, respected, and remembered. Turns were not just about songs, but about listening with love. Harmony isn’t only in the music — it’s in how we wait, listen, and give space to others. Even silence between songs felt like respect.
It reminded me: Travel isn’t just about places, it’s about the people and their small, meaningful ways of living.
P.S. – My recent blog about a Ganesh idol and the memories it carries reminded me of this story from Toronto. Different people, different circumstances, yet both stories are woven together by music. Read Bus Rides, Banter, Songs, and Bonding
P.S. My visit to Toronto also took me on a short side trip to Ottawa — where I had one of my funniest travel memories. Read it here: Lost in Ottawa: How I Accidentally Looked Like a Lunch Thief
