When it comes to loss, some of you are thinking of losing your lives to suicide. I've written about it before because I've known so many teens who have thought seriously about this option. Last night my daughter showed me a moving video by Good Charlotte that I would ask you to listen to if you are contemplating taking your life. They sing the song "Hold On" interspersed with commentary by suicide survivors and those who have to live with the suicide of a loved one. Even if you're not considering taking your life, the video is worth watching and worth passing to others. You never know when Good Charlotte's words and the words of others in the video will make a difference.
(Note: I found out today (5/07) that the link I provided no longer works, so I'm editing the post by providing the video right here.)
Good Charlotte has long held a special spot in my heart. Though there is an occasional song that I'm not really crazy about, their overall message is good and their songs tend to be either meaningful or a lot of fun. One of my favorites is Thank You, Mom. For those readers who still have Moms, singing this song would be a great Mother's Day gift. Unforunately, you'll have to do some searching to find a sample of the song. I tried to put a Napster link here, but it didn't work out. The title was right, but the song was wrong. You can try your own luck going directly to Napster.com and searching for Good Charlotte's Thank You, Mom.
Good Charlotte has several other songs worth listening to. Napster.com offers full tracks for listening to some songs. Try
Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous if you're in the mood for a fun, upbeat song or We Believe if you're looking for something of a more inspirational nature.I have read that Good Charlotte realizes the importance of their fans. I have never met them or been to a concert to verify it, but I suspect it's true. Last fall my teen daughter wanted to sing a song of theirs (and some by a few other artists) for a public event. We wrote for permissions for the songs she wanted to share, and Good Charlotte's manager responded within hours. He was the only one who replied.
Some people are critical of Good Charlotte because they have been labeled a punk band. If you're looking for true punk, you might not enjoy them. No matter what your style, though, the Hold On video is worth a look.
If you've never listened to Good Charlotte, check out the links I've provided. You might find a new group to enjoy. If you're already a fan, I guess I don't have to say anything more. They say it all in their music.
