We all have songs that resonate in our soul, whether it be because of a season of life we find ourselves in, a memory it evokes, or knowing that there are other people who sometimes think about things the same way you do, even if you've never met the person. These are called "heart songs," so I've been told. Lately I've had a song by my favorite band, Stampead, on repeat on my iPod called "A Clown Too Fat to Walk Across a Wire." (You can listen to it here when you click on the player for "Oh Boy.") It's melancholy, and even depressing, and it doesn't resonate with me because I'm melancholy or depressed, I promise. There are things I reflect on from my past and even now that are found in the words to this song, some subtly and some explicitly. It's about the things we do in vain, the things we do unconsciously, the things that hurt us, the things that we regret, the things we try to do but fail. I know it sounds so pathetic but I would bet that there is at least one thing on this list that anyone who hears it can relate to. I love how music can make you think, reflect, and sometimes come full circle when you simply know that somebody out there gets it. (Beware: Judd does drop the f-bomb once.)
What are your heart songs? Is there one in particular that is helping you process through a certain time of your life?
A CLOWN TOO FAT TO WALK ACROSS A WIRE Try to drive on the highway with your eyes closed. Try to take a joke a bit too far.
Try to go to church with something exposed.
Try to make a joke when you’re on your knees.
Try to fall in love without saying please.
Try to make a million bucks with only your smile.
Try not to act like an only child.
Try to call the president once a day.
Try to think before you die the last words you'll say.
My friend, are these the first steps to the end,
my friend, are these the first steps to the end,
of a clown too fat to walk across a wire?
Try to take all your memories, put 'em in a box.
Try to walk thru the city wearing only your socks.
Try not to think about what they're gonna say.
Try to make a difference every single day.
Try to get drunk with just three bucks.
Try not to think about who your ex &#$@%.
Try and realize you only have a few friends.
Try to tell a cop that it won’t happen again.
My friend, are these the first steps to the end,
my friend, are these the first steps to the end,
of a clown too fat to walk across a wire?
Try to be hated for just one night.
Try not to remember that your mother's always right.
Try to get rich by the time you're 30.
Try to be quiet when you're fighting dirty.
Try to walk away without a scar.
Try and pick a fight with someone you love.
Act like a clown when the going gets tough.
My friend, are these the first steps to the end,
of me?
