Ludwig van Beethoven is a fascinating historical figure. He is one of the greatest musical composers and pianists of all time, despite gradually losing his hearing throughout his adult life and being utterly deaf by his 40s. After his loss of hearing, he wrote some of the most incredible music the world has known. I came across an astonishing story about Beethoven recently, and I think there are a couple of powerful lessons for all of us to consider.
Beethoven had a friend who tragically lost his son. Upon learning about this tragic loss, Beethoven hurried to be with the friend. The hearing loss made social settings difficult for Beethoven, but he was determined to go and be with this friend amid the awful loss. As Beethoven arrived, he realized he had no idea what to do. So, Beethoven did the one thing he could do: play the piano for his friend. Selecting music that he felt would express his grief on behalf of his friend, Beethoven played the piano passionately and gracefully for almost an hour. Afterward, he quietly and unassumingly left. The friend reflected years later that it was the most meaningful visit during that difficult season of life.
What a story about the power of showing up for a friend in need. Here are three ways we can show up for the people in our lives like Beethoven.
Pay attention: Life is busy, and we are all moving fast. Too fast. *You can read about how a leader can pay attention better here.* Theologian Dallas Willard reflected that hurry is the greatest enemy of a life of faith and charity. Somehow, Beethoven became aware of his friend’s loss despite being deaf. Beethoven wasn’t consumed with self-pity for his deafness or nosed down in developing a musical piece. He was paying attention enough to do the next thing we could do to show up for others.
Move in their direction: upon hearing of the tragedy, Beethoven moved quickly toward his friend. How often do we see a friend or acquaintance struggling with something, and we mull over what we can or can’t do? We delay, and delay in many cases turns into not at all. Don’t delay. The moment you see the struggle, move towards the struggler. Just get moving so you do the next thing to show up for others.
Skip words, take action: The adage ‘talk is cheap’ is accurately applied to hurting friends. Take action instead. Load their dishwasher, walk their dog, bring them a meal, or play the piano if you are so inclined. Your words will not help. The actions of a friend can soothe heartache in a way that words never will.
After receiving his diagnosis of permanent hearing loss, Beethoven wrote a family member and summed up the perspective of a person who was determined to show up for others. You should consider and apply this quote to benefit the people around you.
‘I will take fate by the throat. It will not overcome me. It is so beautiful to live, to live a thousand times! I feel that I am not made for a quiet life.’ - Ludwig van Beethoven
Keep on, keepin’ on, friends!
Bite Down and Don’t Let Go is a collection of writings on relentlessly leading yourself and others well. Read about it more here. You can listen to the Bite Down and Don't Let Go podcast here!
Dr. Chris Hobbs is an educational leader with more than two decades of experience. He’s earned a few degrees and won some awards. He’s happily married to his high school sweetheart, and they have three children. Life is messy and complicated most of the time. You can follow him on Twitter for inspirational thoughts and good laughs.
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