Have you ever stood in the middle of a crowd but felt like the only person there? That no matter how many people are added, or how many people say hi to you, you're the only one standing in this room? Imagine that room being a small, crowded music venue/bar in a city you've only visited a few times. In that crowded, small venue the only person you know is your dad who is sitting behind the crowd, and you're in the middle of the pit all by yourself. As you look around the room at the people surrounding you, you begin to wonder if all of these strangers will prevent you from having fun? Because you don't have a friend, you won't dance and jump, just stand around.
On May 25, 2016, that was exactly the scene for me. A small-town girl who only went to concerts, with at least one person I know, will have a good time (no offense dad, I know you enjoyed yourself as well), ended up in the town of Ferndale, Mich. to see two of her favorite artists perform in a crowded venue. Walking in, I immediately went to the merch table like always, talked to the guy behind the table, bought a shirt, and then the real horrors began. As I stepped down onto the floor pit, I could feel my stomach begin to twist in knots. I walk toward the middle and just stand there taking in the scene around me. Large groups of friends joking around, tall people everywhere (which is pretty intimidating 'cause I'm a short girl), and just the looming feeling of being alone.
The first half of the night I spent on my phone texting my friend McKay who also loves Felly and GYYPS. I thought maybe if I texted someone about this I wouldn't feel so alone. Although we talked a good bit, I still felt like the only fish in the pond. The second act, Peter $un, came on stage and said something along the lines of letting go and having fun. To not let the people around you intimidate you, if you feel the music dance to it and enjoy life. It was as if he was speaking to me personally, as he began the next song I was still hesitant but uncrossed my arms and let the music fill my entire body. Peter $un's set came to an end, and a huge smile now covered my face, excited to see what the night would have to offer.
As soon as Felly came on stage, I just felt engulfed in happiness. Alexis ended up right beside me and we sang and danced together and mostly just got all excited. At one point, Felly grabbed my hand and held it for a little bit and both her and I just started screaming! It's exciting even getting to see your favorite people live, but to hold their hand was something on a whole new level! I could just feel good vibes radiating off of him.
Being alone at a concert only made me realize that I was surrounded by people who appreciated the music, and loved the artist just as much as I did. Why did I worry about them judging me when the crowd was feeling nothing but good vibes and happy times? You aren't alone in that crowd, don't miss out on the musicians you love most for fear you won't enjoy the show. Most of you who read this will be about my age, and the perfect age to begin taking chances given to you and stop holding back. Sometimes being alone, just means you're in the right place. Enjoy yourself, you don't always get the same chances twice. Maybe you'll end up accidentally meeting the people you love.
