It’s probably the most iconic song in sport. I’m not a Liverpool fan, but whenever I hear You’ll Never Walk Alone, it stirs something deep inside me.
Recently, in three separate conversations, people have mentioned the song to me—not just as a tune, but as a motto. A reminder. And it holds a very special meaning for close friends of mine who are mourning the loss of their son.
A Song That Speaks to the Soul
First and foremost, it’s a beautiful song. A friend sent me this version the other day—listen here on YouTube—and it hit me all over again.
But it’s more than the melody. The lyrics speak directly to where I am in life right now. Living with PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy) brings challenges that are hard to describe. Yet somehow, this song captures the essence of what it means to keep going.
What the Words Mean to Me
Here are the lines that resonate most deeply:
- “Walk on, walk on” – With PSP, PD, or any terminal illness, you simply can’t give up. You have to keep walking, even when it’s hard.
- “Hold your head up high” – I’ve had to give up my career. I can’t drive. I use a walker. To some, I might look like I’m down and out. But I choose to hold my head high. I have meaning in life and value to bring and still contribute albeit in a different way. I don’t need to lose my sense of self.
- “Don’t be afraid of the dark” – There are dark times. Pain. Mental anguish. Tragedy. But we must not fear the darkness. We must face it. Depression laps at my shores and I need to keep fighting it.
- “At the end of the storm, there’s a golden sky” – There are still moments of joy and beauty. A smile from one of my kids. A thank-you note from someone I’ve helped. Holding hands with my wife and just being present. These moments make it all worth it.
- “You’ll never walk alone” – I have a team. A beautiful, amazing wife. Gorgeous kids. A mother, sister, and brother I love. Friends. A great extended family. Great support from professionals. Life is a team game, and I’m not walking this path alone.
The Power of Music and Meaning
When you hear this song at Anfield, it’s not just music—it’s something else entirely. It’s unity. It’s resilience. It’s hope.
When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don’t be afraid of the dark
At the end of a storm
There’s a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark…
You can also watch a powerful short version here at the bottom of the text.
And that’s the thing about music—it brings people together. It reminds us that we’re not alone. Whether it’s 50,000 fans singing in unison or a quiet moment with a loved one, music connects us. It’s a team game. Just like life.
My Message
So, as someone fighting PSP, I say:
Walk on, walk on With hope in your heart And you’ll never walk alone. You’ll never walk alone.
