Dear This Wild Life,

Anthony and Kevin, your music speaks louder than you may realize. You have a smaller following than most bands, but you are that much more special to me. I like knowing that you aren't quite mainstream and I found you through social media, but not by hearing a song of yours played over and over on the radio.

The first songs I heard were "Ripped Away" and "It's Better I Go." It feels like just yesterday, but it was (give or take) five years ago.

You've given me so much with your music. You've lent me pieces of yourselves in the hopes of fixing my brokenness.

"No more bad days," you said, "it's clear from here." This is one of my favorites.

You've helped your fans through more than you probably know.

I've seen you guys in concert twice. The first time was at MegaFest and you were under appreciated because you were the odd one out in terms of genre. But seeing you at The Shelter in Detroit literally brought me to tears. Being able to see, up close, the passion that you embody while playing, was ethereal. It was amazing. I got to go with my best friend, who happens to be a fan of you guys because I introduced her to you.

I have flags, pins, tshirts, and memories that I'll always hold with me.

You've replied, retweeted, and favorited me on twitter and youtube. My friend tells me that it's only because you're a small band, but I choose to ignore her and hold those connections close.

I'll always be a fan. I'll always reach for you and your songs for comfort.

Thank you for the music.

-Katie