Happy Music Monday! So last Wednesday, reader Emmorica made a very special plea to Scott. Emmorica asked for a Music Monday all about leaving the nest, for those who'll be staying behind. Emmorica, you might have made the very first request that Music Monday has ever seen. And what's a mix with no listeners? So please enjoy Scott's very special tribute to the Empty Nest. This one's for you, E.
Your child has their whole life ahead of them. They feel old, because from their point of view, they are! They're older then they've ever been! But you've been to some of the places they're going, and you know how young they truly are. Hey, you've done your best. Now it's their turn to make some mistakes, and get a few things right. You did it, and you did all right. Surely they'll do the same. Wonder what they'll be when they reach your age?
We've got four more inside, then it'll be your turn to help Emmorica out. See you all after the jump.
The hard part about leaving home is all the feelings it stirs up. On the one hand, it's a parent losing something that's been there for about two decades, and knowing most of their job is basically done. On the other hand, it's the start of something amazing, and there's still plenty of time to give advice.
What advice do you give to your child? That's easy. Do what you know is right, stick to your guns, and keep pushing to be better than you were yesterday. Take chances, do stuff, be brave, but don't do things that are too stupid. Curtis Mayfield's sweet sweet encouragement works well for a parent seeking advice. You can do it, kid. Don't let 'em drag you down.
I might not call it cautionary, but this story of a young girl learning the harsh reality of hero-worship is both sad and happy at the same time. Young Sally Simpson leaves home and chases down a daydream, only to have it all go wrong. Though she's not the main character of the record, in the end, she finds her way to her own good life in California, scars and all. Clearly it was because of good parenting.
The Beatles - She's Leaving Home
Sad? Of course. But more of a bittersweet sadness. This might be an end of childhood moment, but it's not goodbye forever. Next time you see your child, they'll be an adult, kind of. Just an adult who's hoping you'll give them money. Like us!
Although this is the kind of song teenagers might ask you to turn down, it's the kind of song most parents will ask you to turn up. Sappy? Sure. Goofy? Absolutely. Sweet and lovely? Sure is. Wherever your kid goes, whatever your kid does, they're still gonna be your kid. Naturally, you'd prefer them to graduate med school at the top of their class, but if they flip burgers for a living? You'll still love them that way too.
Emmorica, thanks for reading, and thanks for contacting us. If your nest is too quiet soon, you're always welcome hit up our Turntable.fm room and the regular Music Monday enjoyment. Also, let us just remind everybody: some images come from the corresponding Wikipedia page and are here under fair use.