Wow!!!! What an awesome testimony💝💝💝. . Blue October fans are special. Thank you for posting. I pray your story will inspire others. Been there and failed, but keep getting back up. 🙏🙏🙏
Those old songs. That darkness, that pain. It is what I live for. I am so glad that these new songs help so many people but it is those old songs that save me. They remind me of where I was so I can appreciate where I am. I learned to use where I am to keep me going forward. Learn to love the person you are even if you have a ways to go to reach the person you want to be...
Same here. I saw them open for the goo goo dolls in Houston, 8/30/22. When I heard Justin say "Happy, joyous and free" I knew what he meant. Ive not had a drink since may 4, 2020 he just reinforced my love for life and sobriety.
Yes . Love this band. Just saw them. First time I ever saw them was in like 2001 such an evolution. I'm so happy for your journey. I lost my dad from alcohol... Worst moment of my life . I'm so happy your kids will continue to have you. GOD BLESS
Indeed,, blue October songs comes with a message, worthy of changing another life... I did thanks them for opening my eyes Hates me was the song that open my eyes... . And yes, this message to the band and Justin is amazing.,..
Agree agree agree……..I hope these guys realize just how their talents are gifts given to them that touches people of all flavors…..deep in their souls.
I'm laying here in my bed, a 31 year old man, bawling into the pillow. You are an amazing person, Steven. Don't let anyone, not even yourself, tell you any different. ❤️
Beautiful, when I went to my first show it was like going to a church with no judgement, no doctrine just love. I felt like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders and I was finally free, and at peace. Blue October is Amazing, they're genuine and are in a league of their own. Stay sticky! Congratulations on your sobriety.
Amen I knew he was special from the first day i watched him God Bless you Justin. I would love at covid is over to come and do worship at The Lamp Church My husband and i do alot of street ministry and we also do a food ministry and we feed and cloth the homeless we are a small church with Gods love and big hearts we want to make a difference in these trying hard times and be a blessing to who ever we meet i love your music and when you first started out i knew you were awesome God Bless love joy
Steven, So Beautiful - May you and your family be continually blessed.💗My son was in an awful depression, and I told him that I understood depression and fear and I also understood there's a way to get through it. I played the song Fear for him and said, "One day that is how you are going to feel." I cried my eyes out a couple of years later when he sent the song to me in a text message and simply said, "you were right."
this has truly touched me, as much as the music has. I needed to hear your message, so please know you inspire as well. I lost my dad to cirrhosis of the liver, 6 years ago. I was the one to take care of him right up to his last second alive. he was my best friend, (I am a drummer, guitarist) my biggest fan. and he was my home, my safe place. he bought me my first guitar, cut me out of a barbed wire fence when I wrecked his 86 Harley Davidson sportster into it. taught me how to fix cars and be independent. however, we were each other's boozing buddies. we both have been alcoholics since the age of 12-13. I went through some horrible things and never really learned to cope. we attended AA together, I sobered up for a good 4-5 years. we bonded in those meetings, we of course were closer than anybody I know for father & daughter but leaving that relationship outside every Saturday and Sunday morning, we saw each other as I saw you in your message today. after he passed I crawled into a bottle of whiskey and have struggled to get out of it for 6 years. I married someone that was a con artist she was poisoning my food and alcohol to keep me in induced state 0 of confusion so that she could continue to drain my bank account steal my inheritance my identity cheat on me and she saved the most painful act for last she abandoned me and ghosted me and I couldn't have felt more broken more despair then I never felt and I learned in those meetings to stop wondering if it could get any worse because when you ask it does and I thought to myself what did I do to deserve this of all the things to deserve this and it was in that moment that I could hear my dad telling me you're not alone you're being carried through this you were a blessing for someone else it just doesn't have a good soul and you have to let go and let God and instead of picking up a bottle and getting completely tanked and wrecking my car or just getting reckless or waiting for that so-called whiskey lullaby I had much like you that moment I shifted my focus I started to cut more and more back on even just drinking a beer I don't drink beer when I barbecue anymore I actually don't drink because of covid we can't go to AA meetings and the meetings I used to go to or in the building that I went to they shut them down and I don't think I would have been able to go without my dad anyways but as a child I can tell you the effect that you were going to have on your children just with that change and and that kite memory is going to be as important to them as it is to you and eventually they'll have an aha moment we're going to look at you differently one day and it won't be in a bad way it'll be in a very good way it's truly inspiring to hear what you had to say and it was definitely something I needed to hear and I thank you so know that the music inspires it really does and it is a lot of us it's a lot of way to express emotion and to get the talk so that we can move on and heal but what you said your story affected me more so than maybe that of one I would have heard in one of those meetings and or maybe you know and we could have crossed paths and I could have heard your story and it would have affected me then but it was definitely meant to affect me now so thank you for posting your story God bless and you truly do inspire
I am a 48 year old man who has PTSD and dealt with it for longer than I can remember. I also have the loving wife and small children who are supportive and loving. I have never met Justin nor have I even been to one of his concerts. I have had my heart touched by your story Steven. The music of Blue October can be felt not just heard. Every string of the guitar resonates out the heart and soul of the man holding it. The beat of the drum is the heartbeat. Blue October is not just a band to me, they are a living entity with a force behind them that can inspire as much as any motivational speaker of life coach. When I am in "THAT PLACE " I can turn on Justin and shed my tears and find my way back "Home". Your vulnerability was magical Steven and I wanted you to know that you touched me as much as Justin does. I now miss Sacramento for the first time in years. Clean since 04/19/1994 , stay strong
Welcome to the bluefamily Steve! Now you are a part of a beautiful family full of love, encouragement, inspiration and support! Beautiful story! Thank you for sharing!
I have no idea if Justin has seen this yet....but my god i just sent this to him...he is my best friend of 23 years and THIS is why... just beautitul Steven
Thank you so much Gene I've been trying really hard to get this message to Justin I still don't know if he has seen it yet but I knew that it was more than I could say in a meet and greet I just wanted to thank him if you by chance find out that he has seen it if you could in some way let me know I would greatly appreciate it I'm also on Facebook as stevenautumn
Justin and blue October literally has saved my life multiple times!! My dream is to meet him I have been off heroin for for 3 years !! My parents still hugely limit my time with my girls .. I still struggle with depression wanting to kill my self as recently as March but their music saves me every time
genewellsemail message me , I would lime to meet him , here is,salt lake , . Mostbof his,song have given me closure, I would like to shake his hand and say thank u .
What an entirely awesome action of making this video. Bravo to you & as I see this video is 4 years old so here is hoping you are now celebrating your 5 year sobriety birthday ! Beautifully stated moments of gratitude.
❤❤ I've always loved blue October and finally got to meet and see them perform for the first time October 18th... and I swear Justin took me to church. Him talking about how hes battled with this darkness in him since he was a child and have to coax himself out of bed in the morning... it hit home. I hope him and the whole band realizes how much they mean to me and to all of us who need to hear we are not alone.
That is amazing that right there is what the world needs more of to just stop for a moment and listen to the music around you it tells a story about life it can open your eyes if you let it . Thank you for talking about your experience it is amazing to know I'm not the only one that See's and feels the magic around us GOD bless you your amazing.
Justin has saved my life numerous times. No other lyricist has put my heart in nto words better. The emotions Justin puts in his voice is unparalleled! Thank you sir for sharing this. And thank you Justin/blue October for your contribution to the universe.
Thank you so much for posting this.. I played the album home the first day I stopped drinking. Now I'm two years sober and it's story's like your one that helps me.. Again thank you.
Thank you Steven for sharing your story and congratulations on your 1 year anniversary!!!! You did it! Keep up the hard work and keep living and loving your life! YOU! Have that glow now! Love to you from Ohio!
Wow, thank you, i wish i could talk to Justin. I was on the verge of going, i let my family down, the most important people in my life, they didn't need me. I was just here, then i watched youtube, anything to distract myself, i found blue october, who? just another band on you tube, no no no no, they hit me like a bus. wow. oh my my, stay with me...yes please....oh i cried....then looked into the band properly....cried so much more.a british 50 year old mum of 4. alcoholic i think, mental health sufferer, declining mum but the music...oh my goodness.....i bought two albums and am working through them all, thank you steven parker, thank you justin, thank you blue october. I don't have facebook, twitter...i have my head and my heart. You are amazing Steven, i want so much to give up the alcohol, i need to give it up. YOU are amazing. YOU have done so well. I hope i too can give this evil drug up, i hope one day justin might see what he has done and i am so very very proud of you, Have a good life, take care, stay strong and be safe. Thank you for your very deep and inspirational post. Made me cry but made me stronger xxx
Man, I know how you feel. I've been sober for just over 3 1/2 years and if it wasn't for FEAR, I wouldn't of been able to do it. I wouldn't have gotten the chance to experience the life that I have now. I've met Justin, and I've told him my story, he hugged me and he acknowledged it by holding up the number 3 for my years sober at that time. The best night of my life. God bless you and I wish you the best!!!
Steve. This is Trevor from the show in Reno @ Cargo. I found this video on the Blue October vevo page. I recorded the a video of the speech at the show. I have listened to it EVERYDAY since the concert. I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY Steve. It was a blessing to meet you. Trevor.
Justin & the band are one of My Biggest Inspirations. The music & determination helped my learn to CHOOSE to REALLY LIVE.!! My Gratitude & Admiration goes out to all of you!!
On my 3rd or 4th blue October show I walked in and they opened up with sway and out of all the concerts I have been to I have never been brought to tears before until that moment
Thanks for your video. I just so happened to really need to hear this today. I've been taking an inordinate amount of benadryl every single day for about 1 1/2 years, as well as a lot of gabapentin, just as a way of helping myself to feel something. But I realized that all I've been doing is bringing myself back up to zero. I think the main reason I've done a lot of this stuff (I was taking really hard stuff before too) not because I was trying to mask any pain... it's cause sometimes the world is a but too "normal" that I don't know how else to live in it. But that all changes today. I hope I can finally let all my vices go once and for all. Maybe then I'll actually be able to remember my life. Also, I didn't realize till you said this, but maybe the reason for all these unhealthy vices is cause I was an extremely difficult person growing up. Maybe I've been trying to bury these thoughts and feelings. Great video
Just bought tickets for the August show in LA because of your video. Can't wait to see him. Thank you for your video. I hope that you are still staying strong.
Love Your message! I was chocked up many times watching it. not very offen do you see a man share his feelings and be so honest and open. Bless your wife , kids and you .
BLUE OCTOBER is like no other band on this 🌍, For years a friend tried to get me to go but I didn’t. Finally I went.... I have been to 8 shows and love how the songs and Justin’s testimonies can hit home within all of us!!!
Blue October has gotten me through all of the toughest times and all of my happiest moments. Blue October is the greatest band. Great story, and congrats on your 1 year sobriety!
I was fighting back tears this whole video. Blue October is one of my all time favorite bands. The emotion and the love in their music is unlike anything else. The album foiled has gotten me through countless things since it came out. It’s always my go to album when I need to feel more like myself. It’s so funny, when the song “I hope you’re happy” came out, I was going through a really bad time, where someone I was very connected to walked out of my life. I felt like my whole world was coming down and that song made the real me, the rational me, come out and just keep spewing love no matter what. Justin is an angel and I am so happy you see it too. God bless man. I don’t know you but I love you and I’m proud of you. Keep posting ! I’m subscribed :) have a beautiful day!
Well I have to say that the first three minutes and thirty seconds of this video is a clear indicator that your tears are not due to this video but rather your own inner turmoil.
First off....congrats on the new life. Thank you for sharing your story. I won't share mine, but know this. Music has kept me alive and especially Blue October. Take you life now and surround yourself with music, family and friends and things will continue to be great. Best of life to you and your family.
This has me in tears right now. From the first time I heard Justin sing, I knew he was different. With every song I listened to it just pulled the pain right from my chest that I had been carrying since I was younger. I’ve watched so many of his interviews and said I definitely had to find a way to go see him in person. I finally get that chance on April 28 in Austin Tx. Thank you so much for sharing your story with everyone Steve. I am proud of your journey!
Congrats on concurring your sobriety brother! That's huge! Blue october will be playing in Pittsburgh, which is roughly 50 miles from me , but the show is coming up and I certainly hope to go!
OMG! I can't believe how incredibly beautiful this is to me! I also have been touched by his lyrics and I've gotten strength to go on because of Justin. I love listening to "Fear" everyday before I go to work. I had pretty much shut down and curled up in a ball of fear and self pity until I found Blue October! I spent almost 3 years not really leaving my house for any reason. I literally become a shut in. I couldn't work or be around anyone! Hate me was the first song and I've been living and loving once again because Justin is living and loving! Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with everyone! Also, Thank you Justin and Blue October for putting it all out there so we don't feel all alone and misunderstood anymore! I love you all! ♥
Congrats Brother! I totally feel your gratitude as well identify with all you say. Great story!!! I cherish all of my Blue October experiences more than most people I know can understand. Thank you for showing us and sharing with us your courage and beautiful smile!
I almost forgot! I was fortunate enough to see Blue October live on Saturday the 21st in the woodlands texas. Absolutely amazing concert! I can't stop smiling! :)
If you want more people to see your message you should change the title to :" A thank you to Justin " I skipped your video many times thinking it's negative and I don't want to get all riled up about one of my favorite artists. Many people title a video a message and then it is all negative. I am glad that I finally clicked on it and I am glad that Justin's vulnerablity changed your life. He is such a wonderful human being.
Moment of silence for the people that didn't make it all the way through the video. Beautiful story. Think we all have our experiences that we can give Justin credit for. congratulations buddy💙 & thank you justin
So glad to have you as part of the Blue Family!! You had me tear up a bit with that beautiful story. Reminds me a lot of what my father went through, and how Blue October helped him become the awesome guy he is today. I truly hope Justin hears your story. Much love from Missouri!!
absolutely beautiful, Steven. God Bless You and Your Family. 24 hours, that's it. If that's too much, 60 minutes. If that's too much, 5 minutes. If that's too much, and sometimes, it can be, it's Just For Right Now. Don't forget that. The next right thing, that thing that's in front of you - do it. from start to finish. When that's done, do the next thing in front of you. Be an anonymous blessing to a complete stranger. Don't tell anyone about whatever gift you have given. Enjoy the sunshine, enjoy the rain. With the good, there is bad; with the pain, there is peace; with dark, there is light. Give and take. Ebb and flow. Be kind. Be generous. Smile. p.s. Steven, YOUR smile is because OF YOU; JUSTIN JUST HELPED YOU FIND IT AGAIN!!!
Also... changed my life instantly. Inside I feel, renewed, and the depression will not have me any longer. It will always linger, but this Bands show, music, have helped me actually live and the dark songs... they are a part of so many people. I've seen a psychiatrist for years.... gotten therapy, and one night at his show...was more helpful than any of them. Congratulations on your sobriety and new "Life"!
Congrats on taking control of your life my friend!! Blue October has been there for me too during my darkest times. I often wonder if they know how impactful their work is to people like me and you. Keep living life to the best of your abilities, and remember that you have a choice each and every day to do the right thing. Much love brother!!
Wow! That was absolutely amazing! How awesome it is to hear how Justin and the entire band has influenced other people than myself for life. I've been watching Justin and the guys in the band go through hell and back since 2006. "Hate Me" was the first song I ever heard on the radio and I actually was turned off initially. But when I looked a little deeper into the band, their story and really listened to the words, I was speechless. From that point on, I would never live without Blue October in my life again....some how, some way. I've seen them how about 11 times including his Open Book shows. I was able to give them a vintage electric guitar several years ago at a Meet n Greet and they repaired it and used on the song "Driver". Jeremy sent me a message to let me know they used it...how freaking cool! I've got the lyrics from FEAR tattooed on my back and get so many complements on it. I am proud to have it displayed on me permanently. I wish you all the best in the world and I'll pray for you. Thank you for your testimony sir. God be with you and your family. Lisa
Your so sober in your sequence of thought and recollection. You seem like a very wholesome hearted person. Im glad to see you kept yourself open to interpretation in that valuable moment.
jrenae75 thank you very much for your comment I'm glad his show touched as well I was at that show in Sacramento on June 15th 2018 keep your head up it always works out
Jrenae75 I really hope where you are now is good for you. Stay positive things will work out. Plus you’ve got some inspirational music to listen to now since the new album is out.
Your Blue family is always here. Beauty and kindness always wins, stay true to yourself. You're always gonna be better than those negative people, art teachers are creative people who color outside the lines. School officials and 90% of the teachers find comfort in staying in the lines, following rules, being dull and boring, not the art teacher. Remember you are the one person in the school that teaches creativity and individuality. With out you there will never be another Bill Gates. Best of luck.
Wow, music is so powerful, isn’t it?! Just saw my first Blue concert this past weekend, but have been a longtime fan. While I can’t relate to the addiction issues, I have suffered from severe depression my whole life. Justin’s words speak to my soul. So glad to see their music has changed your life, among thousands of others. I hope you’re happy 😊
![Blue October - Home [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/7fNAVW4Otks/mqdefault.jpg)
This is the difference between Blue October and any other band. Other bands have fans, Blue October has the Blue Family.
i cant like this anymore!! love you for saying this!! so true!!
Wow!!!! What an awesome testimony💝💝💝. . Blue October fans are special.
Thank you for posting. I pray your story will inspire others. Been there and failed, but keep getting back up. 🙏🙏🙏
yes we do🗣
#bluefamily
I don’t believe that the band has any idea how much they have changed so many lives.
Agreed
Those old songs. That darkness, that pain. It is what I live for. I am so glad that these new songs help so many people but it is those old songs that save me. They remind me of where I was so I can appreciate where I am. I learned to use where I am to keep me going forward. Learn to love the person you are even if you have a ways to go to reach the person you want to be...
It was an honor to listen to this man! Tears in my eyes
This is Love, and it's contagious! Amen.
Same here. I saw them open for the goo goo dolls in Houston, 8/30/22. When I heard Justin say "Happy, joyous and free" I knew what he meant. Ive not had a drink since may 4, 2020 he just reinforced my love for life and sobriety.
Yes . Love this band. Just saw them. First time I ever saw them was in like 2001 such an evolution. I'm so happy for your journey. I lost my dad from alcohol... Worst moment of my life . I'm so happy your kids will continue to have you. GOD BLESS
Indeed,, blue October songs comes with a message, worthy of changing another life...
I did thanks them for opening my eyes
Hates me was the song that open my eyes... .
And yes, this message to the band and Justin is amazing.,..
Goosebumps Justin is awesome 😎 Love 💕 Blue October ❤️
Thank you Steven for sharing your story....bless you...may your joy continue
I don't think Justin knows how important his music is to EVERY person who listens to his songs. This story is amazing
So sweet. Justin is such and inspiration for all who will listen!
Agree agree agree……..I hope these guys realize just how their talents are gifts given to them that touches people of all flavors…..deep in their souls.
I hope Justin saw this.......you are very moving and you deserve the world
You see that SMILE !! It’s all BECAUSE of YOU DuDE! Justin helps heal our hearts, but you put in the work! WONDERFUL SToRY! Stay strong, Brother !
All of their albums have told my story and helped me be a better husband, father and human.
Thanks for helping me find my forever.
I'm laying here in my bed, a 31 year old man, bawling into the pillow. You are an amazing person, Steven. Don't let anyone, not even yourself, tell you any different. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story and best of luck to you going forward. Congratulations
Beautiful, when I went to my first show it was like going to a church with no judgement, no doctrine just love. I felt like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders and I was finally free, and at peace. Blue October is Amazing, they're genuine and are in a league of their own. Stay sticky! Congratulations on your sobriety.
thank you for opening your life and story to me. You will never know just how desperately I needed to hear this. bless you my brother 🤗
Amen I knew he was special from the first day i watched him God Bless you Justin. I would love at covid is over to come and do worship at The Lamp Church My husband and i do alot of street ministry and we also do a food ministry and we feed and cloth the homeless we are a small church with Gods love and big hearts we want to make a difference in these trying hard times and be a blessing to who ever we meet i love your music and when you first started out i knew you were awesome God Bless love joy
Congratulations 🎊 🥳 🎊 👏 👏 🥰🥰🥰💖💖💖💖💖X💯!!!!!
Awesome. Enjoy your new life. Enjoy the the time with your family.
Steven, So Beautiful - May you and your family be continually blessed.💗My son was in an awful depression, and I told him that I understood depression and fear and I also understood there's a way to get through it. I played the song Fear for him and said, "One day that is how you are going to feel." I cried my eyes out a couple of years later when he sent the song to me in a text message and simply said, "you were right."
Blue family are the best ! We lift each other up and stick together 💙💙💙💙
What am awesome message. God was working through Justin. He uses Justin so much to help so many.
this has truly touched me, as much as the music has. I needed to hear your message, so please know you inspire as well. I lost my dad to cirrhosis of the liver, 6 years ago. I was the one to take care of him right up to his last second alive. he was my best friend, (I am a drummer, guitarist) my biggest fan. and he was my home, my safe place. he bought me my first guitar, cut me out of a barbed wire fence when I wrecked his 86 Harley Davidson sportster into it. taught me how to fix cars and be independent. however, we were each other's boozing buddies. we both have been alcoholics since the age of 12-13. I went through some horrible things and never really learned to cope. we attended AA together, I sobered up for a good 4-5 years. we bonded in those meetings, we of course were closer than anybody I know for father & daughter but leaving that relationship outside every Saturday and Sunday morning, we saw each other as I saw you in your message today. after he passed I crawled into a bottle of whiskey and have struggled to get out of it for 6 years. I married someone that was a con artist she was poisoning my food and alcohol to keep me in induced state 0 of confusion so that she could continue to drain my bank account steal my inheritance my identity cheat on me and she saved the most painful act for last she abandoned me and ghosted me and I couldn't have felt more broken more despair then I never felt and I learned in those meetings to stop wondering if it could get any worse because when you ask it does and I thought to myself what did I do to deserve this of all the things to deserve this and it was in that moment that I could hear my dad telling me you're not alone you're being carried through this you were a blessing for someone else it just doesn't have a good soul and you have to let go and let God and instead of picking up a bottle and getting completely tanked and wrecking my car or just getting reckless or waiting for that so-called whiskey lullaby I had much like you that moment I shifted my focus I started to cut more and more back on even just drinking a beer I don't drink beer when I barbecue anymore I actually don't drink because of covid we can't go to AA meetings and the meetings I used to go to or in the building that I went to they shut them down and I don't think I would have been able to go without my dad anyways but as a child I can tell you the effect that you were going to have on your children just with that change and and that kite memory is going to be as important to them as it is to you and eventually they'll have an aha moment we're going to look at you differently one day and it won't be in a bad way it'll be in a very good way it's truly inspiring to hear what you had to say and it was definitely something I needed to hear and I thank you so know that the music inspires it really does and it is a lot of us it's a lot of way to express emotion and to get the talk so that we can move on and heal but what you said your story affected me more so than maybe that of one I would have heard in one of those meetings and or maybe you know and we could have crossed paths and I could have heard your story and it would have affected me then but it was definitely meant to affect me now so thank you for posting your story God bless and you truly do inspire
I am a 48 year old man who has PTSD and dealt with it for longer than I can remember. I also have the loving wife and small children who are supportive and loving. I have never met Justin nor have I even been to one of his concerts. I have had my heart touched by your story Steven. The music of Blue October can be felt not just heard. Every string of the guitar resonates out the heart and soul of the man holding it. The beat of the drum is the heartbeat. Blue October is not just a band to me, they are a living entity with a force behind them that can inspire as much as any motivational speaker of life coach. When I am in "THAT PLACE " I can turn on Justin and shed my tears and find my way back "Home". Your vulnerability was magical Steven and I wanted you to know that you touched me as much as Justin does. I now miss Sacramento for the first time in years. Clean since 04/19/1994 , stay strong
Wow, Awesome, that made me cry. 👊,, I love his music also 😍
Welcome to the bluefamily Steve! Now you are a part of a beautiful family full of love, encouragement, inspiration and support! Beautiful story! Thank you for sharing!
It’s 2021 of July 4th- I still listen to them ❤️
I have no idea if Justin has seen this yet....but my god i just sent this to him...he is my best friend of 23 years and THIS is why... just beautitul Steven
Thank you so much Gene I've been trying really hard to get this message to Justin I still don't know if he has seen it yet but I knew that it was more than I could say in a meet and greet I just wanted to thank him if you by chance find out that he has seen it if you could in some way let me know I would greatly appreciate it I'm also on Facebook as stevenautumn
This is beautiful hope justin sees this! Justin changed my life too!! He’s amazing!!
Justin met him officially on June 15 2018 at the Sacramento I Hope You’re Happy show and Justin has definitely seen this.
Justin and blue October literally has saved my life multiple times!! My dream is to meet him I have been off heroin for for 3 years !! My parents still hugely limit my time with my girls .. I still struggle with depression wanting to kill my self as recently as March but their music saves me every time
genewellsemail message me , I would lime to meet him , here is,salt lake , . Mostbof his,song have given me closure, I would like to shake his hand and say thank u .
Congratulations Sir sobriety is the best gift you can give yourself Nd your loved ones I am so grateful for your experience keep on keepin on
This man has changed my life as well. Justin writes songs that speak for me. My all-time favorite band, because they touch lives and hearts.💙
This is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
What an entirely awesome action of making this video. Bravo to you & as I see this video is 4 years old so here is hoping you are now celebrating your 5 year sobriety birthday ! Beautifully stated moments of gratitude.
❤❤ I've always loved blue October and finally got to meet and see them perform for the first time October 18th... and I swear Justin took me to church. Him talking about how hes battled with this darkness in him since he was a child and have to coax himself out of bed in the morning... it hit home. I hope him and the whole band realizes how much they mean to me and to all of us who need to hear we are not alone.
Beautiful testimony brother. Thank you for sharing. God bless you and yours. Amazing 👍
The "morning steve" lady had me laughing so hard. Here I was drawn into your touching story and then I'm laughing.
That is amazing that right there is what the world needs more of to just stop for a moment and listen to the music around you it tells a story about life it can open your eyes if you let it . Thank you for talking about your experience it is amazing to know I'm not the only one that See's and feels the magic around us GOD bless you your amazing.
Respect and love to you and your family Steve
Justin has saved my life numerous times. No other lyricist has put my heart in nto words better. The emotions Justin puts in his voice is unparalleled! Thank you sir for sharing this. And thank you Justin/blue October for your contribution to the universe.
Congratulations!! Thank you so much for sharing your story. I hope Justin gets to hear your story. God bless you.💙
I don't usually comment on things but I feel this dude in my soul. Great job bro. 🙏❤
Wow. Common soul. God however you perceive, bless you and your family.
How He put his Heart into Your Soul. Very moving choice of words.
Much love to you Steve.
Happy birthday Steven! Such clean words! I see right through your soul!
Wow! A huge well done Steven.👏💙
Thank you so much for posting this.. I played the album home the first day I stopped drinking. Now I'm two years sober and it's story's like your one that helps me.. Again thank you.
WoW!! Awesome story! Thank you for sharing man! Thank you very much. You're an inspiration. Cheers.
Thank you Steven for sharing your story and congratulations on your 1 year anniversary!!!! You did it! Keep up the hard work and keep living and loving your life! YOU! Have that glow now! Love to you from Ohio!
Wow, thank you, i wish i could talk to Justin. I was on the verge of going, i let my family down, the most important people in my life, they didn't need me. I was just here, then i watched youtube, anything to distract myself, i found blue october, who? just another band on you tube, no no no no, they hit me like a bus. wow. oh my my, stay with me...yes please....oh i cried....then looked into the band properly....cried so much more.a british 50 year old mum of 4. alcoholic i think, mental health sufferer, declining mum but the music...oh my goodness.....i bought two albums and am working through them all, thank you steven parker, thank you justin, thank you blue october. I don't have facebook, twitter...i have my head and my heart. You are amazing Steven, i want so much to give up the alcohol, i need to give it up. YOU are amazing. YOU have done so well. I hope i too can give this evil drug up, i hope one day justin might see what he has done and i am so very very proud of you, Have a good life, take care, stay strong and be safe. Thank you for your very deep and inspirational post. Made me cry but made me stronger xxx
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
I love this band! Very real!
God bless you! I’m so happy you found this place. 👍🏼
Man, I know how you feel. I've been sober for just over 3 1/2 years and if it wasn't for FEAR, I wouldn't of been able to do it. I wouldn't have gotten the chance to experience the life that I have now. I've met Justin, and I've told him my story, he hugged me and he acknowledged it by holding up the number 3 for my years sober at that time. The best night of my life. God bless you and I wish you the best!!!
i love you man. thank you for this. i relate to you
FEAR is my "theme song", it helps me fight my demons every day!❤
Blue October changed my life too!! Amazing what music can do. Thank for sharing your story!
Steve. This is Trevor from the show in Reno @ Cargo. I found this video on the Blue October vevo page. I recorded the a video of the speech at the show. I have listened to it EVERYDAY since the concert. I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY Steve. It was a blessing to meet you.
Trevor.
Thanks for sharing, so happy to be the part of the Blue family myself. Stay safe
Amen Steve welcome to the B.0 family!
Admire this! Thanks for being my friend & for our love for blue 💙
Justin & the band are one of My Biggest Inspirations. The music & determination helped my learn to CHOOSE to REALLY LIVE.!! My Gratitude & Admiration goes out to all of you!!
On my 3rd or 4th blue October show I walked in and they opened up with sway and out of all the concerts I have been to I have never been brought to tears before until that moment
Your, sir, are an inspiration now with your sobriety. Congrats to you and your family. I personally have a Blue October song for every mood.
Thanks for your video. I just so happened to really need to hear this today. I've been taking an inordinate amount of benadryl every single day for about 1 1/2 years, as well as a lot of gabapentin, just as a way of helping myself to feel something. But I realized that all I've been doing is bringing myself back up to zero. I think the main reason I've done a lot of this stuff (I was taking really hard stuff before too) not because I was trying to mask any pain... it's cause sometimes the world is a but too "normal" that I don't know how else to live in it. But that all changes today. I hope I can finally let all my vices go once and for all. Maybe then I'll actually be able to remember my life. Also, I didn't realize till you said this, but maybe the reason for all these unhealthy vices is cause I was an extremely difficult person growing up. Maybe I've been trying to bury these thoughts and feelings. Great video
Just bought tickets for the August show in LA because of your video. Can't wait to see him. Thank you for your video. I hope that you are still staying strong.
Good to hear , how did you like the show ???
I stumbled on this I’m just sitting here sobbing . So inspirational love Blue October. So happy Justin could help you 👍
Love Your message! I was chocked up many times watching it. not very offen do you see a man share his feelings and be so honest and open. Bless your wife , kids and you .
BLUE OCTOBER is like no other band on this 🌍,
For years a friend tried to get me to go but I didn’t. Finally I went....
I have been to 8 shows and love how the songs and Justin’s testimonies can hit home within all of us!!!
We are changed lives changing lives. Heaven is not for the good. Its for the forgiven. God bless you all.
Blue October has gotten me through all of the toughest times and all of my happiest moments. Blue October is the greatest band. Great story, and congrats on your 1 year sobriety!
God bless you and your family! 💙
Beautiful story. Im pulling strength from them too. I won't miss out on my day in the oasis with my kids.
I was fighting back tears this whole video. Blue October is one of my all time favorite bands. The emotion and the love in their music is unlike anything else. The album foiled has gotten me through countless things since it came out. It’s always my go to album when I need to feel more like myself. It’s so funny, when the song “I hope you’re happy” came out, I was going through a really bad time, where someone I was very connected to walked out of my life. I felt like my whole world was coming down and that song made the real me, the rational me, come out and just keep spewing love no matter what. Justin is an angel and I am so happy you see it too. God bless man. I don’t know you but I love you and I’m proud of you. Keep posting ! I’m subscribed :) have a beautiful day!
Well I have to say that the first three minutes and thirty seconds of this video is a clear indicator that your tears are not due to this video but rather your own inner turmoil.
First off....congrats on the new life. Thank you for sharing your story. I won't share mine, but know this. Music has kept me alive and especially Blue October. Take you life now and surround yourself with music, family and friends and things will continue to be great. Best of life to you and your family.
Ditto!
T-bone Willingham same here bro music is a better healer then most drugs they give people now a days
This has me in tears right now. From the first time I heard Justin sing, I knew he was different. With every song I listened to it just pulled the pain right from my chest that I had been carrying since I was younger. I’ve watched so many of his interviews and said I definitely had to find a way to go see him in person. I finally get that chance on April 28 in Austin Tx. Thank you so much for sharing your story with everyone Steve. I am proud of your journey!
Congrats on concurring your sobriety brother! That's huge! Blue october will be playing in Pittsburgh, which is roughly 50 miles from me , but the show is coming up and I certainly hope to go!
Thank you for sharing your story and giving us a glimpse of the strength you have inside.
OMG! I can't believe how incredibly beautiful this is to me! I also have been touched by his lyrics and I've gotten strength to go on because of Justin. I love listening to "Fear" everyday before I go to work. I had pretty much shut down and curled up in a ball of fear and self pity until I found Blue October! I spent almost 3 years not really leaving my house for any reason. I literally become a shut in. I couldn't work or be around anyone! Hate me was the first song and I've been living and loving once again because Justin is living and loving! Thank you for sharing your beautiful story with everyone! Also, Thank you Justin and Blue October for putting it all out there so we don't feel all alone and misunderstood anymore! I love you all! ♥
No words….just Wow!
How amazing!! I listen to Blue October in my dark moments cuz it always lifts my spirit back up! 10/31/16 blessed 🙏
Congrats Brother! I totally feel your gratitude as well identify with all you say. Great story!!!
I cherish all of my Blue October experiences more than most people I know can understand. Thank you for showing us and sharing with us your courage and beautiful smile!
I almost forgot! I was fortunate enough to see Blue October live on Saturday the 21st in the woodlands texas. Absolutely amazing concert! I can't stop smiling! :)
If you want more people to see your message you should change the title to :" A thank you to Justin " I skipped your video many times thinking it's negative and I don't want to get all riled up about one of my favorite artists. Many people title a video a message and then it is all negative. I am glad that I finally clicked on it and I am glad that Justin's vulnerablity changed your life. He is such a wonderful human being.
I saw the title and thought uh oh... Somebody's getting an earful but it is a very touching video ♥️
Absolutely incredible and beautiful story. Thank you so much for sharing! Keep living happy, joyous and free =)
what a difference he is making in so many life's
Moment of silence for the people that didn't make it all the way through the video. Beautiful story. Think we all have our experiences that we can give Justin credit for. congratulations buddy💙
& thank you justin
Thank you for your awsome testemony he also made my day
So glad to have you as part of the Blue Family!! You had me tear up a bit with that beautiful story. Reminds me a lot of what my father went through, and how Blue October helped him become the awesome guy he is today. I truly hope Justin hears your story. Much love from Missouri!!
absolutely beautiful, Steven. God Bless You and Your Family. 24 hours, that's it. If that's too much, 60 minutes. If that's too much, 5 minutes. If that's too much, and sometimes, it can be, it's Just For Right Now. Don't forget that. The next right thing, that thing that's in front of you - do it. from start to finish. When that's done, do the next thing in front of you. Be an anonymous blessing to a complete stranger. Don't tell anyone about whatever gift you have given. Enjoy the sunshine, enjoy the rain. With the good, there is bad; with the pain, there is peace; with dark, there is light. Give and take. Ebb and flow. Be kind. Be generous. Smile.
p.s.
Steven, YOUR smile is because OF YOU; JUSTIN JUST HELPED YOU FIND IT AGAIN!!!
Absolutely correct.. I know that now.
GOOD FOR YOU Blessings to ya dude
Also... changed my life instantly. Inside I feel, renewed, and the depression will not have me any longer. It will always linger, but this Bands show, music, have helped me actually live and the dark songs... they are a part of so many people. I've seen a psychiatrist for years.... gotten therapy, and one night at his show...was more helpful than any of them. Congratulations on your sobriety and new "Life"!
exactly ... thank you ...
Congrats on taking control of your life my friend!! Blue October has been there for me too during my darkest times. I often wonder if they know how impactful their work is to people like me and you. Keep living life to the best of your abilities, and remember that you have a choice each and every day to do the right thing. Much love brother!!
Wow! That was absolutely amazing! How awesome it is to hear how Justin and the entire band has influenced other people than myself for life. I've been watching Justin and the guys in the band go through hell and back since 2006. "Hate Me" was the first song I ever heard on the radio and I actually was turned off initially. But when I looked a little deeper into the band, their story and really listened to the words, I was speechless. From that point on, I would never live without Blue October in my life again....some how, some way. I've seen them how about 11 times including his Open Book shows. I was able to give them a vintage electric guitar several years ago at a Meet n Greet and they repaired it and used on the song "Driver". Jeremy sent me a message to let me know they used it...how freaking cool! I've got the lyrics from FEAR tattooed on my back and get so many complements on it. I am proud to have it displayed on me permanently. I wish you all the best in the world and I'll pray for you. Thank you for your testimony sir. God be with you and your family.
Lisa
I'm a few years late getting to this video lol it was worth the wait 💪❤️
Your so sober in your sequence of thought and recollection. You seem like a very wholesome hearted person. Im glad to see you kept yourself open to interpretation in that valuable moment.
Justin met him officially on June 15 2018 at the Sacramento I Hope You’re Happy show and Justin has definitely seen this.
jrenae75 thank you very much for your comment I'm glad his show touched as well I was at that show in Sacramento on June 15th 2018 keep your head up it always works out
Oh that is so great!! I was at that show too!!!😁
Jrenae75 I really hope where you are now is good for you. Stay positive things will work out. Plus you’ve got some inspirational music to listen to now since the new album is out.
Your Blue family is always here. Beauty and kindness always wins, stay true to yourself. You're always gonna be better than those negative people, art teachers are creative people who color outside the lines. School officials and 90% of the teachers find comfort in staying in the lines, following rules, being dull and boring, not the art teacher. Remember you are the one person in the school that teaches creativity and individuality. With out you there will never be another Bill Gates. Best of luck.
Wow, music is so powerful, isn’t it?! Just saw my first Blue concert this past weekend, but have been a longtime fan. While I can’t relate to the addiction issues, I have suffered from severe depression my whole life. Justin’s words speak to my soul. So glad to see their music has changed your life, among thousands of others. I hope you’re happy 😊
This is an awesome tribute I hope you still are changed xoxoxo