On school days, we say our morning prayers, and I bless my children in the car during the drive. This morning, as always, Agbenu turned on the music afterward. I had Building 429’s “Listen to the Sound” on repeat.

Agbenu asked, “Dad, have you been listening to this song for several weeks?”

“Yes,” I replied. “You know me—every now and then a song gets stuck in my head. This is the current one. I was getting ready for work one morning, reflecting, and I caught myself thinking of it. I started playing it and I haven’t had enough of it yet. And guess what?”

“What?” she asked.

“This isn’t something new. I’ve been doing this for a long time.”

Agbenu smiled. “It’s interesting how we are so similar, yet different. We like the same genres of music—old and new—but I couldn’t listen to the same song over and over. I’d get fed up with it and never want to hear it again.”

“I agree,” I said. “For me, certain songs speak to me in specific seasons in a way that is almost too personal to describe. I just stay with them for as long as it takes to feel satisfied.”

“Maybe you should write about it,” Agbenu suggested, smiling.

“I’ll see about that,” I told her.

For the rest of the drive, we talked about my first book, Diary of Fatherhood—discussing sales, marketing strategies, and how she could help. Of’Owoicho sat quietly throughout the conversation until we arrived at school.

On my way home, I thought, I want to write about this, but I don’t know exactly what to say. I decided I would simply journal about our conversation. Throughout the day, the thought of writing excited me. Even before I began, I knew Agbenu would enjoy reading it. I felt affirmed by her interest; she recognizes me as a reflective journaler. She appealed to my hobby, my strength, and my therapy.

Perhaps that’s why I felt such a spark of excitement while writing this piece, especially after a long break from reflective journaling. Even though I couldn’t quite articulate why I find such fulfillment in listening to the same song for weeks, I felt inspired. Thank you, My Only One!

The reason why listening to a song on repeat is therapeutic was still a question. The answer was found with the help of AI on Google Search:

• Question: “Why is it therapeutic to listen to a song on loop?”

• Answer: “It acts as a form of emotional self-regulation, providing a safe and predictable ‘mental anchor’ that helps stabilize your nervous system during times of stress or transition.”

Mama, we are indeed so similar, yet our differences have brought us to this beautiful result today. Beyond our many similarities, we share a deep sense of inquisitiveness. Because of our unique perspectives, you asked me a question that prompted me to write about my own uniqueness. I didn’t have a ready answer at the time, but I accepted your request—and here we are! Listening to the same song on loop is so therapeutic; I hope you are as satisfied with the outcome as I am. ❤️

• 4/20/2026