Even the sun shiniest of people have their stormiest of days. After all, sometimes the days that feel the greyest often prove to be the loudest reminders for us of how much we get to be grateful for in the times we sometimes may take for granted. I know I am not alone in this. And more importantly, YOU are not alone in this feeling either. You currently may be feeling the same way in this very moment. You may not be able to place why you are feeling this way. Questioning your purpose, wondering “What am I really on this earth for? What am I here to accomplish?”. In the recent months, anyone I have been in connection with and discussed these unwelcomed emotions with, they too seem to have similarly experienced this to some degree. It not only feels overwhelming to have these thoughts but altogether exhausting. Further proving that you are not alone in these feelings, is Josh Groban’s newest single, “River” that serves as a reminder that even in what may feel like the darkest of times, there is always a way to find the light.
“Some days I can’t say why I’m feeling lonely Some days I am too proud to ask for help And I stumble through the noise Trying to find some peace A stranger in the crowd, I lose myself”
Through his talent and love for music, Josh chose to take his struggles to his lyrics highlighting the hardships of life while reassuring his adoring fans that they are undoubtedly never alone. With the lyrics profound and vulnerable, “River” serves as a beautiful piece of music that is both moving and symbolic. So why the title, “River” you may be wondering. Forever moving, and always in constant motion, rivers are widely known as a symbol of the flow of life itself. So perhaps there’s no coincidence that Josh Groban’s song title and accompanying lyrics represents just that.
The singer-songwriter shared with PEOPLE his intention behind his profound new song, “Whenever we have dark times in our lives, whether we suffer from depression, or addiction, or anxiety, or even just having a really bad day, the worst is that it feels like we are suffering alone… Far too many people this way… I hope this song is a reminder that it’s the simple steps, the smallest gestures, that can pull us back to the light. It’s those things for me. Find your ‘river’.”
“Let the calm pull me under Far beyond the thunder Tell me it will all be okay Let the waves take all my worries Conquer them with fury Give me shelter be my escape”
These lyrics are profound as feelings and conversations of depression continue to resurface today. The widespread feeling that many feel embarrassed to share their feelings for fear of being misunderstood or not taken seriously or feeling incapable or less than is what Josh hopes to shed light on. In the times when you may be feeling lost, even the simplest of tasks can feel daunting or a burden. Further proving how moving and relatable his song really is, are the hundreds of thousands of people who continue to be and brought to tears globally. From YouTube to Facebook, listeners continue to make it known how deep this song resonates with them on a personal level.
YouTube user Kaylee Kotch comments, “This song helps to remind us that we aren’t indestructible and are fragile creatures. Our feelings and bodies are very breakable, and this song empowers us in a way. It is very humbling and allows us to feel like it’s okay to not be okay. Thank you, Josh., For reminding us that we are all worth it. For reminding us that it’s okay to cry. For reminding us that there’s always a future for us, no matter how old we are, and that there’s light on the other side of the wall. Thank you.”
In addition to the song’s heartfelt lyrics, the song also was released on 9/11/18, which too grabbed a lot of audience attention and appreciation. The loving reminder and dedication to finding the light on one of the Nation’s darkest memorial days rippled appreciation within thousands of hearts.
Josh Groban’s song is a reminder that you are not alone in this sometimes seemingly overwhelming life, but to embrace and trust that brighter days are ahead. There is always a river to soothe your soul and allow you to let life flow.
