Originally Posted by
jdubfan
Since I obviously don't personally know Joe or his family, this is speculation from 40+ years of listening/reading interviews and from other things with which I have experience. This isn't so much about Joe's family, it's more about Joe and his ability to bond and have relationships. He's spoken about being physically separated from friends and family all the years on the road, then mentally separated from the affects of addiction. Isolating, a common addiction problem, so he was checked out most of the time. This no doubt was hard on his marriages and kids. And was the reason exes became exes and why friends, other relationships were lost.
Tried it before, never felt right
I never dreamed that someday I might
Be part of something bigger than me
It makes me feel humble, finally I see
Then when you become sober, all those relationships change again. Some are repaired, some are lost, amends are made, and starting life over begins. Now, with the recovery that he's achieved, he can mentally and physically connect, be a husband, father, family member 'cause he's plugged in and available and not hiding in a bottle.
Give thanks, take time to say that I'm
So grateful for all that surrounds me
We laugh, we cry, stand together that's why
It's all being part of a family
Lucy's media was very positive and pro Joe about this new music, so I'm guessing she understood what was being said in this song. I don't remember what ages his boys are or how much they understand all the dynamics of things, but I've heard Joe say at the end of a few interviews Hello to them and that he loves them. I'm guessing that's not just for show. Honesty is the most important part of recovery and he seems intent on that.
I think it's lovely, very heartfelt song, with very naked and tender feelings. So happy he can have this kind of insight now. Proof that it's never too late for love, acceptance and to start over. That's my take on it.