How a Wilson Phillips Song Became the Backdrop of My Senior Year
Rhythm Reverie #12
The following story is part of a larger series that you can read more about here. Check out this Spotify playlist to hear the songs referenced in the series.
Growing up, my parents’ house was the default hangout spot. Whenever my friends and I would get together, there was rarely a question as to whose house we would go to. By default it was mine.
I don’t know if it was the coolness factor my parents exuded (insert sarcastic tone here) or the surrounding space I grew up in. 65 acres of land allowed for a lot of room for activities.
My parents still live in this house and every time we gather in the living room, I can’t help but to think of the times they would willingly allow close-knit get togethers and even full-blown soccer team bonding sessions that amassed over 20 people.
During my senior high school year, the movie Bridesmaids often served as the backdrop of these hangouts. Everyone seemed to be able to quote it inside and out, and I still to this day utter “Help me, I’m poor” whenever I’m in a bind.
Our obsession soon leaked into the zeitgeist of our soccer team. Next thing I knew, my parents were hosting a handful of girls to watch the movie before almost every home game. It became a match day ritual that slowly morphed into a raging superstition.
Failing to watch Bridesmaids before stepping onto the field meant we were likely going to lose.
One of the closing scenes of the film shows the main characters reuniting at a wedding, and the song “Hold On” by Wilson Philips plays as they finish the ceremony. Comedic dance moves ensue, and it’s a joyous reunion of characters once at odds with each other.
I hear this song now, and I think of that house and the memories that fill the living room. The sound of pre-game laughter that eased our nerves, the snacks that were often poor choices prior to 80 minutes of running on the field, the routine we fell into to get ready for the game. One of us always needed to remind the other that yes, they’ll remind them to bring their shin guards.
Just like the film preaches, there’s something special about female friendships. These bonds remain a defining part of my life, supporting me in the ups and downs and everything in between.
Especially in the downs, I can always count on these girlfriends to remind me of the sentiments Wilson Philips belts out.
Things could go your way
If you Hold On for one more day, yeah
