I do not tend to relate to songs, but recently I have found I recognize myself and my situations in the music on the radio, or the voices of old favorites. Many times, the connection is cliché, and similar to the feeling that comes from fortune cookies or horoscopes, like I am trying to force the connection. However, when strong emotions are felt, music can be the best outlet. So here the songs I have connected to recently

1. Fresh Eyes by Andy Grammer

These lyrics brought so much joy, and filled my cheeks with enough blood to appear rosy and warm my face against the cold air. Now, I am haunted by these words eerily following me down the hallway, never leaving me at peace, not even under the safety of my covers.

2. White Winter Hymnal by Fleet Foxes

I was following the pack, all swallowed in their coats
With scarves of red tied 'round their throats
To keep their little heads from falling in the snow, and I turned 'round and there you go

It was cold, I was keeping up with the crowd, I was focused on what they were wearing, what they were doing. Instead of my own path or desires, I was focused on what the others wanted, leading me astray.

3. I Hate Everything About You by Three Days Grace

I hate everything about you
Why do I love you
I hate everything about you
Why do I love you

With this song, I changed the lyrics up a little bit, as I did not love the person I sang it for, I did not hate them either. This was a song that let me release my anger by screaming the lyrics in the middle of an empty parking lot.

4. Story of Us by Taylor Swift

This is looking like a contest
Of who can act like they care less
But I liked it better when you were on my side

I used to sing this song as a little girl, but it never felt applicable until now. I can now feel the awkward dance of stillness, and avoidance that Taylor Swift was inspired to use for this song. Perhaps it is the bluntness of the lyrics that made me latch onto the song.

I do not tend to relate to songs, but recently certain moments in songs have hit me hard. I now understand the appeal of using music as an outlet. I used to listen purely from boredom, or the desire to dance, or to calm down. But now, I can listen and relate to the artist, and know that as time passes, so will my connection to the song. Songs stay with us through seasons of life, and I am thankful for these ones, but look forward to what music lies ahead.