lighthousestairs:

I don’t get sentimental on my blog very often because I like jokes and things more than I like being serious most of the time, but today is a special day. Sure, it’s just an ordinary rainy Friday, but today is also Shane Henderson’s birthday.

For the past four years, Shane has had a major influence on my life ever since I found Promise of Redemption from one of my best friends at the time. And from When The Flowers Bloom, I got through one of my friend’s deaths when I thought I never would. Then in 2009, one of my other good friends died and I found safety in Shane’s music one again. I’ve written two essays about Shane’s music saving my life, and I even gave one of them to him so I could explain without speaking a word. And ever since I’ve written down those words, I’ve felt a lightness on my shoulders, the same lightness I feel whenever I see him after a show and he remembers me with a smile, always saying hello.

I’m a firm believer that music is not out there for entertainment or money purposes. Sometimes it’s about the days when you’re afraid to fall apart. Sometimes it’s about connecting with people that understand without you having to explain a thing. Sometimes it’s all about timing.

So for the thousandth time, whether you’re reading this or not, thanks for everything, Shane. Thanks for being concerned when you called from my friend’s phone and I was locked out of Julie’s house in the middle of winter. Thanks for saying happy birthday to me on Twitter a few years ago. Thanks for always hugging me an extra few seconds, in case I forget that you understand. Thanks for taking the time to talk to me even when I stammer because you’re one of the only band members I get nervous around. Thanks for writing me reminders to get me through. Thanks for always being there.

I have complete faith that things will be okay. It’s just for now we sing.