Calling All Angels
Monday Moment #4
This Sunday as I was driving home from running an errand, “Calling All Angels” by Train came on the radio. I’ve always loved Train, but the song really touched me given the state of the world right now and the fact that it’s Memorial Day weekend. The song was a hit in 2003, but it’s message is as relevant as ever 20 years later.
It seems an appropriate spark on a day set aside to remember and honor the courageous military members who have died for and served this country in the name of what the United States has represented and provided for 249 years. But lately we don’t feel so united and so much is at risk of being lost. And it’s been keeping me up at night.
But as I drove home belting out “calling all angels” at the top of my lungs, I felt hopeful and lighter. On one hand, it’s a song that taps into a collective sense of overwhelm, helplessness, and loss of faith, but then the lyric “I won’t give up if you don’t give up” feels like an inspirational call to action. For me the "angels" can be literal or symbolic: helpers, protectors, or just forces of good. We can all be forces of good. And singing felt cathartic and reminded me that I’m not alone in how I’ve been feeling. Music, lyrics, books, poems, fine art, entertainment and creative arts in general, can be tremendously powerful.
Have a listen and sing or hum along. It’s a great way to start a Monday (or any day) and it’s been scientifically proven that singing is good for your mental health:
It boosts mood and reduces stress by releasing endorphins and oxytocin, and lowers cortisol.
It fosters a sense of belonging and community synchronizing with whoever you’re singing along with (in person or on the radio/Spotify/etc.).
It improves cognitive function by engaging the brain in ways that improve memory, attention, and executive function.
It supports breath and emotional regulation because controlled breathing in singing helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
If you aren’t a fan of Train just find a different song you do love and sing/hum/tap/dance along! But I’ve provided Train’s lyrics below in case you want them.
What are your favorite songs right now? How are you feeling? Who are you remembering? Be well, and I won’t give up if you don’t give up. 😇 😘
Stay strong,
P.S. This song will be added to the Briefly playlist on Spotify!
Calling All Angels
by Train : 2003
I need a sign to let me know you're here
All of these lines are being crossed over the atmosphere
I need to know that things are gonna look up
'Cause I feel us drowning in a sea spilled from a cup
When there is no place safe and no safe place to put my head
When you feel the world shake from the words that are said
And I'm calling all angels
And I'm calling all you angels
And I won't give up if you don't give up
I won't give up if you don't give up
I won't give up if you don't give up
I won't give up if you don't give up
I need a sign to let me know you're here
'Cause my TV set just keeps it all from being clear
I want a reason for the way things have to be
I need a hand to help build up some kind of hope inside of me
And I'm calling all angels
And I'm calling all you angels
When children have to play inside so they don't disappear
While private eyes solve marriage lies 'cause we don't talk for years
And football teams are kissing Queens and losing sight of having dreams
In a world that what we want is only what we want until it's ours
And I'm calling all angels
And I'm calling all you angels
And I'm (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Calling all angels (I won't give up if you don't give up)
And I'm (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Calling all you angels (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Calling all you angels (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Calling all you angels (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Calling all you angels (I won't give up if you don't give up)
Just what I needed