A Serene Ritual

Freddie Ravel, 38

Keyboardist and multi-platinum composer

As a recording artist, composer and producer, I find myself in constant dialogue with God regarding all aspects of my life. I firmly believe that God is all there is and that each and every one of us is a manifestation of that almighty presence. Whether I’m about to create a composition or go onstage to perform for thousands of people, I know that it is never about me and only about God. I am but a messenger of the most universal truth--and that is, simply, love.

Love and music have always been the dominant themes in my life. I was raised with love by a Colombian mother and a Russian/German/Polish father who filled our home with music that ranged from sobbing Russian violins to hot-blooded salsa rhythms. More importantly, I was raised with a love of God by a Catholic mother and a Jewish father who encouraged me to find my own spiritual path.

My exploration has brought me to Science of Mind. Now I begin every day with a four-step ritual: Scrape the tongue, salute the sun, breathe and meditate. The first part of this ritual is a yoga asana. The last part of the ritual incorporates the Science of Mind “five-step treatment” program: establishing that God is all there is, recognizing that we are all unified within that presence, bringing to God whatever issues concern me at the moment, giving thanks to God, and releasing myself and everything in my life to God.

This ritual and the serenity it imparts to my life allow me to fulfill the mission statement displayed on my Web site (https://www.freddieravel.com): “Through the creation and sharing of a unique music, we endeavor to celebrate and illuminate our common roots and heritage as people of God and spirit.”