Little Black Sandals - Sia
Boundaries. To me, the little black sandals represent boundaries or the abillity to recognize and extricate yourself from whatever you consciously+unconsciously feel is dangerous and unsafe for you
The line where he says he’ll let go only if only she explicitly asks it is the exact opposite of how it should be, where the default is no and inviting people to opt-in to that which may be triggering.
I like that tea analogy where boundaries is as simple as whether or not you’d like a cup of tea. Invite and have consent before you use it up for someone who doesn’t want or cannot accept it
Safety Dance by Men Without Hats feels a bit like low-hanging fruit, but I think it fits quite well. Whether it is dancing or really any sort of expression, you ought to do it if you desire to regardless of how others may feel. And if your friends constantly constrain themselves based on the judgements (or fear of judgement) of others, that isn’t going make them new friends either. I wish I danced more when I was a kid. But I dance now.
“How to save a life” by The Fray is literally intervention instructions.
I’ve heard people say this about “Here Comes A Thought” from Steven Universe.
Personally? “Let It Happen” by Tame Impala. The lesson being, just fuckin’ go for it. Don’t fall for the toolbox fallacy: oh I need X and Y and Z before I even begin trying to [blank]. Unless [blank] is practicing medicine or juggling chainsaws, no, you’re probably okay to start doing whatever. Failure is a prerequisite to most things. You have to suck at something before you can be good at it. The right time to plant a tree is ten years ago.
The Barenaked Ladies’ “Next Time” is the same idea, but expressed with typical dry and bitter comedy. Tame Impala’s take is more likely to get your ass out of your seat - literally and figuratively.
Losing My Religion - REM
Everybody hurts - REM
Mad world - tears for fears
Everyone wants to rule the world - tears for fears
Where the streets have no name - u2
Hurt - Johnny Cash
Imagine - John Lennon
Zombie - the cranberries
Lightning crashes - Live
My name. Smother Love by Crass. Your lover is not an object to possess.