A Supple Start to 2025 Illuminating the New Year Through Song

“What a Wonderful World”: A Song for These Times

When What a Wonderful World was written in 1967, the world was in a state of upheaval. War, civil unrest, and division filled the headlines. Amid the noise and chaos, a small group of creators dared to bring something radically different into the world—a song of reverence, wonder, and hope.

Creating this song was no simple task. Louis Armstrong, a jazz legend in his twilight years, poured his soul into it despite opposition from record executives and logistical challenges. Against the backdrop of societal discord, the song’s creators held a clear vision: to unite people in appreciation of the beauty all around us, even in the midst of hardship.

Today, we find ourselves in a similar time of division and uncertainty. How can we meet this moment? Perhaps, like Armstrong and the creators of this timeless song, we can choose to listen deeply, cherish beauty, and create connections.

Why this song Matters Now

This song reminds us to notice the small miracles around us—trees of green, red roses, blue skies, and the kindness of people. It invites us to listen, not just with our ears, but with our hearts. In a time when conversations often feel like battles, this kind of listening is a radical act.

Singing this song is more than reciting its words; it’s an act of connection. When we sing, we practice listening—not just to the melody, but to ourselves, the space around us, and the tone that emerges. Valborg Werbeck-Svärdström, founder of the School of Uncovering the Voice, calls this expectant listening. It’s a way of listening that is open, curious, and free of judgment.

This kind of listening is essential for healing the divides in our world. It allows us to truly hear one another and hold space for something new to be born in our relationships.