There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music

“There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.” Thus spoke Albert Schweitzer, healer of bodies, servant of humanity, and philosopher of the soul. In this simple declaration lies a truth that shines brighter than its humor suggests: that amidst the storm and struggle of existence, we must find sanctuaries that soothe the weary spirit. For life is often harsh, filled with toil, sorrow, and uncertainty, and man must seek havens—places where the burden of living grows lighter. Schweitzer saw in music and cats such havens, both humble and profound.

The ancients themselves sought similar solace. Orpheus, the great musician of Greek myth, charmed even the stones with his lyre, softening the hearts of gods and men alike. In his melodies, grief was stilled and joy awakened. Likewise, the Egyptians honored the cat as sacred, a guardian of the home and a symbol of gentle mystery. Bastet, the feline goddess, was protector of hearth and heart, her presence bringing comfort to the anxious and protection to the vulnerable. In Schweitzer’s words, we hear the echo of this ancient wisdom: music lifts the soul, while cats steady it with quiet companionship.

Consider the soldiers of the Great War. Amidst the mud and blood of the trenches, men clung to songs. Rough voices lifted together in melody brought courage where despair threatened to overwhelm. And in those same camps, cats wandered freely, offering warmth and solace to men far from home. They caught rats, yes, but more than that, they offered companionship, their soft purring easing the anguish of hearts that had seen too much. Here we see Schweitzer’s wisdom made flesh: that in the simplest things—song and the companionship of an animal—the spirit of man finds strength.

For what is music if not the language of the soul? It carries us beyond words, beyond reason, into the realm where sorrow dissolves and beauty reigns. A single melody can awaken memories, heal wounds unseen, and give voice to feelings otherwise trapped within. And what is a cat if not the embodiment of quiet presence, a creature who teaches us how to rest, how to sit in stillness, how to find peace in the simple warmth of another living being? These are not luxuries, but sanctuaries against the storms of life.

O children of the future, learn from this wisdom: seek out your refuges. Do not imagine you are strong enough to endure the miseries of life without them. The world will wound you, yet in song you will find wings, and in companionship—even from the humblest of creatures—you will find comfort. Without such havens, the soul hardens; with them, it softens and endures.

The lesson is clear: do not despise the small joys, for they may prove greater than crowns or gold. A song hummed in solitude, a hand brushing the fur of a purring companion—these are treasures that kings may envy. They remind us that amidst all striving, life’s sweetness is found not only in conquest, but in stillness, tenderness, and beauty.

Therefore, let your practice be this: fill your days with music, not only to entertain but to heal. Cherish the animals who walk beside you, for in their simple companionship lies profound wisdom. Build your refuge not in riches, but in the quiet havens that lift the heart and steady the soul.

So I say unto you: remember Albert Schweitzer’s words. Music and cats—symbols of sound and silence, of transcendence and rest—are sanctuaries from the miseries of life. Seek them, honor them, and let them remind you that even in a world of hardship, there is always refuge, always beauty, always peace to be found.