Well, it had to happen one day. This life was full of very unique experiences, crazy stories, ups and downs, and everything in between. Those who know me also know how important music is to me, and they will know how to remember me. My only hope is that I was able to leave a lasting memory in this world and that I was able to bring a smile to those faces whom I cared to put a smile on.
Music is a huge part of my life, and I try to make it a big part of others’ lives as well. I would love to be able to pick a playlist to play at my funeral. It would be full of 90’s rock songs, seventh grade dance songs that had been forgotten about (“Pony” from Ginuwine, anyone?), and new songs that none of my friends know about. It would be completely predictable for me to choose a song by my favorite band, 311. I always made my friends and family listen to them. For this, I do not apologize, because they rock. However, I also really enjoyed sharing new songs and new bands that my friends and family had never heard before. Who will do this when I am gone?
My funeral should not be a sad occasion. It should be a celebration of a life that deserves celebrating. The party to end all parties. I tried to have a good time every single day; just because I’m gone doesn’t mean those good times have to end. I want bands, music, dancing, and if someone wants to, you can say a few nice things about me. All good things must come to an end.
When given this assignment, I knew right away which song I wanted to use: “This Is Not An Exit” by Saves The Day. It’s about being OK with the end of your life, and knowing that everything you did and accomplished, not only will not be forgotten but cannot be changed. I will be remembered for what I did, not for what I didn’t do, and I can always know that I tried my best. The game of life can be over at any minute, and no one should take that for granted. It’s important for those attending this service to realize that as they leave. One of my favorite lines from a song comes from this track and just about sums up the way I would like to have my life thought of in the end. Here’s one more song you may not know.
To breathe in the air will be
the only thing that you have
and your love will be warm nights
with pockets of moonlight
spotlighting you as you drift, the actor in this play.
And you walk across the stage, take a bow, hear the applause,
and as the curtain falls, just know you did it all
the best that you knew how
and you can hear them cheering now.
So let a smile out and show your teeth
cause you know you lived it well.
