If you didn’t recognize the title of this article, you’re probably either too young or you haven’t experienced an emo phase (lucky you). The title is one of Fall Out Boy’s most popular songs, and it is a song that defined my adolescence. I’ve gone through many phases in my life, but one thing that will always remain consistent in my life is my love for music. Through many trials and tribulations, music has always gotten me out of tough times, which is why I’m thankful for music.
Speaking from personal experience, I think music can be very healing and restorative. When people are going through tough times, they may rely on music they can relate to in order to make them feel less alone. There’s nothing like a good party playlist to pump you up and put you in a good mood. From getting in your feelings with Drake to going back in time with Nat King Cole, music is great at setting an atmosphere.
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Music is a very powerful point of connection between people. Need a conversation starter? Ask someone who their favorite artists are, and see if you have any in common. When I studied abroad in Japan, a girl first spoke to me because she noticed that I was also One Direction fan. Since then, she’s become one of my closest friends. After our study abroad experience, we have remained in contact. We’ve traveled to Seoul, South Korea, and New York together. I dragged her to see BTS with me in Oakland, California, and we’ve seeing Harry Styles twice together. This friendship all started because of our common interest in One Direction, and it’s only blossomed from there. I’m extremely thankful for this friendship made through music.
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One of my favorite aspects of music is that every culture has their own relationship with it. For example, in Hawaiian culture, music is an extremely important link to our history and who we are as Hawaiians. In the past, hula and chants were used to preserve the culture. When missionaries came to Hawai’i in the 1700s and 1800s, they were vehemently against hula. This led to hula being banned from being performed publicly. The ban was lifted years later, and it’s wonderful that hula has been able to thrive from that experience. For Hawaiians, music keeps the culture alive and that is something I am forever thankful for.
When being thankful, take time to be thankful for the small things. Indulge in music or go to a concert! Do whatever you makes you happy! Never underestimate the healing properties of music. Remember to express your thankfulness this month and every month!