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My youngest, Boy2, has recently fallen head over heels for Blink-182. It all began with “All the Small Things.” They play it frequently at the hockey games, and since he loves to sing along, he picked it up in no time. When “One More Time” was released, he heard it on the radio and started singing along before he even realized it was by Blink-182. Now, he’s constantly requesting it from Alexa.

Beyond the charm of hearing his sweet little voice singing about “strangers” and “brudders,” I have to say, I genuinely love the song. It’s profound, a bit dark, and incredibly real—just the kind of music that resonates deeply.

The lyric “it shouldn’t take a sickness” resonates deeply with me on a personal level. My perspective on life shifted dramatically after I faced my own battle with cancer. At the time of my diagnosis, a close friend was already grappling with his own cancer struggle, and shortly afterward, we learned of another friend’s diagnosis. Tragically, we lost both of them.

For a long time, I wrestled with the question of why I survived while they did not, and honestly, it’s a struggle I still face occasionally. In response, I’ve made a conscious effort to live in a way that honors those who can’t. It’s a profound responsibility that I’ve taken on, but it feels like the very least I can do in their memory.

Do I have to die to hear you miss me?
Do I have to die to hear you say goodbye?
I don’t wanna act like there’s tomorrow
I don’t wanna wait to do this one more time

“One More Time” by Blink 182

Wow, that really touches my heart.

Reflecting on this makes me deeply appreciate the relationships I cherish today. I’m grateful for the connections I’ve maintained with past friends and for the chance to reconnect with others. For instance, I regularly chat with two of my childhood best friends through Facebook and text, and I’m at peace knowing that we’ve both made an effort to stay in touch. I have no regrets about those relationships.

While it’s impossible to stay in constant contact with everyone, I’ve resolved never to take tomorrow for granted again. I hope this makes sense—it’s something that brings me a sense of peace.

Lyrics from “One More Time” by Blink 182.
Featured image courtesy of Deposit Photos artist gevko93.