What is often said about the path paved with good intentions? I’ve contemplated writing this letter for a decade, and now feels like the right moment to finally express my gratitude. This is a thank-you note that has been 25 years in the making, and I’d like to share my story.
My Journey with the Indigo Girls
My journey with the Indigo Girls began in my teenage years. I would listen to their music on the way to cross-country meets, bouncing along in the backseat of my parents’ car on the winding roads of Pennsylvania. I’d often return home exhausted, mud-stained and sweaty, with my trusty Walkman in hand, its buttons making that familiar “ka thunk” as I replayed my favorite tracks. Emily and Amy’s songs touched on themes of false friendships; their words resonated deeply with me, assuring me that I would overcome such challenges and eventually find genuine connections. I believed in their message. They sang about love, nature, and the beauty of vulnerability—topics not often addressed in the late ’80s and early ’90s when mainstream music seemed to focus more on superficiality. The Indigo Girls stood out with their powerful harmonies and meaningful lyrics, offering a refreshing alternative.
Their music was a lifeline during those lonely bus rides and tumultuous teenage years. I began to envision a future where I could emerge from adolescence as a strong woman, inspired by the example they set. It was a glimmer of hope, a reminder that brighter days lay ahead.
A Time of Grief
Fast-forward seven years: my father passed away unexpectedly at the age of 48. I had just graduated from college, filled with dreams and aspirations, when I received the devastating news. Alone and terrified, I returned home to support my mother during this trying time. I found solace in mundane tasks like cooking and laundry, desperately trying to fill the void left by his absence. Grief enveloped me, and I felt anger towards the beauty of the world around me—how could it continue to thrive while I felt so hollow?
I picked up Swamp Ophelia during this time, listening absentmindedly as I moved through the house, still trapped in a fog of sorrow. Then I heard it: “The Wood Song.” Carrying a basket of laundry, I was suddenly struck by the lyrics:
“But the wood is tired, and the wood is old,
And we’ll make it fine, if the weather holds
But if the weather holds, we’ll have missed the point
That’s where I need to go.”
These words pierced through my grief like a ray of light. In that moment, I felt alive again—hopeful, even. This song became a source of comfort, reminding me that feelings could return, and I could heal.
Transformative Experiences
Fast-forward another 15 years. I’m now a mother of two daughters, a dedicated teacher, and a part-time writer. One evening, I venture out to see the Indigo Girls perform at Higher Ground in Burlington, Vermont, just shy of my 40th birthday. I’ve experienced their live shows before, but this time feels different. I’m close enough to see their expressions, their passion radiating through the air. They’ve only grown more inspiring with age, demonstrating a model of living openly and fully. Their performance was once again a transformative experience.
Fast-forward two more years. My family and I are on a cross-country road trip, and as we travel westward, I blast “Get Out the Map” and “Closer to Fine,” singing along with all my heart:
“Why do we hurtle ourselves through every inch of time and space
I must say around some corner I can sense a resting place
With every lesson learned a line upon your beautiful face
We’ll amuse ourselves one day with these memories we’ll trace.”
My youngest daughter, just eight years old, listens intently and declares, “I love the Indigo Girls.” I smile and respond, “So do I, honey. So do I.” I look forward to sharing my experiences with her, the story of the stairs, the concert, and the journey of a girl maturing into a woman.
Thank You
Thank you, Emily and Amy. Your artistry has enriched my life immensely. Though it took 25 years to express this gratitude, the message has only deepened over time—just like your music.
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In summary, this heartfelt tribute highlights the profound impact the Indigo Girls have had on my life over the past 25 years, from my formative teenage years to my current role as a mother. Their music has not only been a source of comfort but has also inspired me to embrace life fully and authentically.
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