Today I'd like to pay tribute to a woman that, despite my having never met her face to face, has impacted my life in ways I could never have imagined. Every weeknight from the hours of 7 p.m. to midnight, Delilah takes dedications and lends experience-based advice while playing music — both old and new — to remedy damaged hearts and celebrate love and God's presence in our lives. For 31 years, Delilah has openly offered the gifts of love and hope to the world, and today I'd like to give back by reaching out directly to this kind, strong and amazing woman to say one very simple thing:
Thank you for showing me that life spent giving to others is something I can work hard to achieve. Thank you for having faith in me when I did not have faith in myself. Thank you for reminding me that sometimes I just need to stop, take a breather, and give myself time to heal after being hurt by something beyond my control. Thank you for always being there through thick and thin and treating us loyal listeners like members of a family unburdened by trivial things such as distance or political affiliations. Thank you for creating an atmosphere of respect, and for proving to the world that we are capable of loving each other through everything life throws our way.
In respect to the traditions of the Delilah radio station, which can be found and listened to any day, any time, on IHeartRadio or Delilah.com, I'd like to share a story of the role Delilah has played in my life.
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When I was six or seven years old, I remember my mother frequently playing the Delilah radio station during our trips in the car. Now radio stations are generally known by the music that they play, but I would beg my mother to turn the station to Delilah every chance I got because "I wanna hear the stories!" My mother had the Delilah station bound to the number 1 preset and we listened to and talked about those stories nearly every night. We laughed, we cried, we belted out the corniest music at the top of our lungs, but most importantly — we learned to love others and make room in our hearts for anyone in need. At seven years old, I knew how to treat a person with respect, and I knew firsthand through the stories on that station the damage I could cause to others and myself if I didn't
When my sister finally gave me her radio, my family could hear Delilah playing in my room nearly every night. I grew up on real life miracles and when things got tough, and boy did they get tough, Delilah always seemed to know exactly what to say to lift my spirit. When we moved to a new home while I was in second grade and I was struggling to make friends, Delilah's words of wisdom offered me a sense of belonging. No matter how lost I had become, she would be there from 7 to midnight like a beacon guiding me back into the light. I'm now 23 years old and finishing up my Bachelor's in English. I write fiction and poetry (lots of poetry) and intend on educating the college students that come after me on how to do the same. My goal in life in simple: replicating what Delilah had done for me as long as I can remember, to act as a beacon for those who lose their way.
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Please consider checking out this wonderful nonprofit founded by Delilah at www.pointhope.org
You can donate to the cause or even volunteer to help contribute to building a future for children in need.
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Delilah, today I'm going to walk a mile in your shoes. I have heard you discuss your struggles and I want you to know that I care. We, your loyal listeners, love you like a sister, a mom, and a best friend we wouldn't dare spend our nights without.
It isn't much, and I'm sorry for not having flashy audio tech or video editing skills and for not being the best singer, but I'd like to personally dedicate this song to you. Know that if you ever find yourself lost like the men and women who call in to speak with you every day, we will be here for you. This song is for you, Delilah.
P.S. Tell Michael Bublé I said hi and that he's next on my list!
