
True Story... about ... "So..?"
"Pulling Threads" began its existence as a deeply analytical, introspective poem about finding out why and how I used to be so negative, sarcastic, and dismissive of reasonably good advice from people who genuinely cared about others. Empathy was a learned skill. The events described within this song's lyrics actually happened. I was with classmates and colleagues, celebrating the successful final production of a stage play. We were at a cast party talking about how everything went, how our lives were going, and what we hoped for in the future. One of my friends seemed to be going through a psychological crisis, doubting and questioning his existence, his value amongst our peers. He kept asking some sincere questions - to which I simply replied with the question "So..?" Then he went quiet for a bit, thinking things through... re-examining things from a new perspective. His follow-up queries were also met with me simply asking, "So..?" Recently, I touched base and presented this song to him... He told me that my constant single-word response of "So..?" was a very cathartic way to deal with the trauma he had been going through at the time. So... ;) This song evolved from poem to lyrics, becoming much more than just that captured memory. Overall, it's about examining perception of reality, religion, politics, and life in general. "Pulling Threads" is for those who are at a decision point in their lives. As you listen, I hope it might inspire a re-examination of the limitations you placed on your perspectives. There are always shades of grey in every decision... In addition to all that... the "Pulling Threads" and "So..?" are a play on words... if you get it... "Sew..?"
"Pulling Threads (So..?)" There’s no such thing as harmless oppression, even if the tormentor has good intentions. If your beliefs interfere with freedom of thought, you must question everything you were taught From childhood: born into a world filled with pain - inflicted on innocent minds of those with different faith. There is love to be found in every being; even the loneliest ones have passions unseen. Open your heart and mind to receiving joy, but don't let yourself fall for the deceptive ploy Of believing in the improbable, unseen legends; instead become an unshakeable, visible presence. Step outside yourself and look at your actions, listen to your words and watch your distractions. Focus on the body of incessant pain within you, emotional and physical things that may cloud your view, Are all those hurtful things actually important? Or is your psyche just bringing you torment? Many years ago, a friend of mine was in distress, always sad because his life was a complete mess. He asked me many questions with answers I did not know, I challenged him by responding to each with… "So?" The manner in which I replied to his worries allowed him to find answers within his own queries. [Chorus] I’m pulling threads from inside your head, Questioning everything you said… Showing you things you didn’t know… My question now and forever is… - “So?” Having endured a youth filled with toxic circumstance, I have spent half my life in a morbid trance. I focused on only the past, the pain, the nightmares; but from now on that madness and despair Will hold no place in my present or future outlook on life, because I've chosen to turn on my inner light. The man before you stands at the ready, focused on potential of being open and friendly. Change has become a point of assertion, tactful speech and politeness a major exertion As I find the me who was knocked down so long ago. I have begun to learn how to let it all go. Our lives will be filled with moments shared, we must be kind to those who really do care. I must educate my ignorance of societal norms, if ever I am to completely transform, So when I open my mouth to make a statement, the listeners may hear words filled with greatness. Instead of being a complainer, a negative person, I choose - from this point on - to lead conversations Being a supporter; to contribute a positive discussion, and genuinely find within my self-compassion. This new me must fight off the body of madness and pain, so that I may walk off into the horizon sane. [Chorus] I’m fighting threats trying to get in my head, Wrestling with everything to mend the damage done everywhere I go. My answer will always be… - “So?” There is no such thing as harmless intention, even if my mentor shows me how to make a great impression. The absence of belief is something untaught, that one thing he recommends to me - I will not Permit his influence on my rational mind, as I have left that insanity far behind - me. The love I can see now in every being, even those who mask it with fear and pain - unseen, Gives my heart a surge of hopeful joy, knowing that deep inside we can all enjoy Sharing ourselves through compassionate presence, becoming something less than what clouds our essence. We must step aside and let our true selves shine, unhinge our egos and pain bodies to find The inner self, a child deprived of sunlight, an innocence with whom we must reunite. Let go the facade and become whole again, knowing that the universe will sustain us. When we find ourselves focusing only on the negative, we must pause... Consider for a moment before discovering the real cause. Human beings like to be dramatic, gossip and complain, but there is a solution to this bringing of pain. The next time someone has problems with their life, let them meditate on the edge of reality's knife. Just listen quietly with patience - let them pull out the threads of misery. When they have pulled that last thread, ask them: "SO?"