On a day like today, wishing my favourite band a Happy Birthday doesn't seem like enough. Especially when that band has done more for you than they could ever know. So, here's what I could say to them if I could:
Thank you. I know that seems like such simple words, but trust me, there are a lot of reasons I have to say thank you to you guys.
For years, I felt different. I was never a part of the in crowd; didn't stand out, didn't fit in. I just went with the flow I guess, doing what I needed to get through. Then one day at school, I saw something that would forever change my life. A poster, "A Night with Alan Doyle and his guitar". I knew the name, so when I got home, I mentioned it to my mother. Tickets were only $10, so myself along with my mom and now stepfather, decided to go.
To be honest, that was one of the best decisions I ever made. From the first note I heard, I knew I was changed. I felt a connection to the music, and more importantly my home. The music made me happy, right down to the very depths of my soul. And its that very same music that got me through a very rough patch in my life- a year that saw my parents divorce, my father threaten to kill my mother, me hearing it all and subsequently giving a statement to the cops and seeing my father get arrested. Anyone else would've cracked under the weight of all that. But the music got me through.
Being diagnosed with autism didn't help matters much. It was another thing that set me apart. I finished school, but struggled on where to go and what to do next. I hated crowds, and avoided them. But that was until I attended my first concert at Mile One on December 18, 2004. There I felt safe, accepted, and free. I was finally somewhere where I fit in, and when you struggle your whole life to fit in, that feeling is one of the most amazing things I'd ever experienced. And that hasn't changed in the almost 12 years I've been a fan.
When times were rough it was the music that saved me, much like a hand reaching out and keeping me from falling. Through the deaths of friends and family and my own personal struggles, you guys were there whether you knew it or not. And when I actually did reach out for comfort or advice, you guys have been there. I honestly don't know how to say thank you enough for that. From the death of my cat to a family struggle, your kind words have seen me through. In my darkest hour, when I wanted to end my life, something pulled me back. And I firmly believe it was your music. You've kept me going when I simply wanted to quit.
Its through you guys that I have become friends with some of the most amazing people, most of whom are now like family to me. These friendships happened because of GBS. My best friend is now my roommate, and is like a sister to me. That wouldn't have happened if not for you guys. Heck, I even met my now ex through you guys. I've experienced a lot cause of you all.
Even through the leaving of several members, I've never lost my faith in you guys. Somehow I always knew that you'd keep going. When others thought you were done, I screamed "no way!". I knew they were wrong. I thank God they were wrong.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. Happy 21st Birthday, and I hope you guys keep rocking for a long time to come!
Much love,
Krista
xoxoxoxo
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