Barbara Cardenas

Recess | Culture Sep 12, 2025, 3:00 AM This is the first article in "The Art of Listening" series. Music plays many different roles in our lives. Maybe it’s a part of a morning routine, the soundtrack to a study session, or a way to unwind after a long day. That’s the great thing about music: it exists everywhere, and can find a purpose anywhere. However, all of these functions share one similarity — they make music a background. A background to activity, routine, emotion.

In high school, I was sure I’d study economics and political science. That’s what I wrote on my Duke application. It sounded solid. Smart. Useful. I figured I’d keep the creative stuff (music, writing, storytelling) on the side. Not because I didn’t love it, but because I didn’t think I was allowed to center it. Not if I wanted to be taken seriously. By the time I got to Duke, the plan shifted slightly.

Going back to therapy has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’m learning to navigate success without fear and to embrace happiness without waiting for the other shoe to drop. I’m unlearning the idea that I need to be in distress to deserve help. And I wish I had understood that sooner. So, if you’re reading this and thinking, “I feel fine, I don’t need therapy,” I’d encourage you to reconsider. Therapy isn’t just for when you’re at rock bottom, it’s for making sure you don’t get there again.