Capstone+Essay+Paul+Thomas

Essay

Due December 1, 2012

The DDBC has initially been very motivating as I have been exposed to, experienced, and had hands on learning of new tools. I have also become reacquainted with many tools that I was aware of, but never utilized very much. I think more than anything, DDBC has inspired me artistically to integrate my skills and talents as a songwriter and musician with the tools of internet technology as a new platform of expression.

I would be considered a digital immigrant in regards to this technology. In addition to my having to adjust to this new vehicle of communication and possibilities, it has also created many challenges as an artist. The once established path for a musician's livelihood has been totally turned upside down by the availability of music through virtual distribution. In this respect, I am also a digital immigrant as I constantly seek new avenues of livelihood through the understanding and utilization of web technology.

In many ways the doors of possibilities have flung open and allowed someone like myself to find a platform of expression and distribution without having to go through the old controlled corporate model of the music industry. At the same time, other challenges have been created since there are now countless numbers of songs being posted everyday. So within this new construct, one must be constantly asking them self how they can find interested listeners in such a saturated field.

What helps me through all this is the sense of mission I have always had regarding my music. Every art reflects the heart, mind, and soul of the artist. My dedication and conviction to the //good news// has always manifested itself in my work. Although not always overt, my spirituality is inseparable from my experience as as songwriter. I don't "try" to incorporate elements of faith into my work, it simply finds itself there because it is a constant focus in my life. Since music, social justice, and formation are all passions of mine; they are naturally integrated in my creative process.

This brings me to the application of my DDBC experience to ministry. Although I certainly am not the first to post music and images to You Tube, as an individual with individual gifts and perspective, perhaps I can touch people in a unique way with my contribution. Music has always been influential (for good or ill) in the lives of people. I still believe it has great potential in contributing to the formation of conscience. DDBC has helped expand the language of technology for me, and combined with music, inspired me to utilize it as a tool of ministry.

Especially for our young people, who are the digital natives, I think linking art and technology as a learning vehicle cannot be underestimated. They have already been plugged in for years and as challenging (or even painful) as it may be for us to catch up, it is essential that we recognize this new platform of communication and adapt it to evangelization. We must offer alternatives in the endless virtual world of content.

My personal challenge is not to give in to the despair brought about by the thought of content saturation. Faith must be applied that somehow, even if one person comes across a piece I have posted, then perhaps I have contributed to a more merciful and compassionate world. I will think of myself as an instrument of God using my gifts and talents to the best of my ability through the vehicle of web technology. At one time in history, even the pencil was new technology. This thought helps me to resist intimidation, go with the flow, and apply the person I am to the language of our time. When else in history have humans had the potential to help transform hearts and minds across the world in an instant?