I had never heard of the Straight Edge movement so decided it would be good to share this new information (to me) with you. “Straight Edge is a subculture and subgenre of hardcore punk whose adherents refrain from using alcohol, tobacco, and other recreational drugs. The movement adopted the term from the song “Straight Edge” by the 1980s hardcore punk band, Minor Threat.” [courtesy National Day of Calendar]

I’m a retired lady, I can’t even tell you the name of a current punk band or singer. I did look up a picture of a band. I enlarged it so it’s sort of blurry, sorry.

punk band

I’m sharing the picture to make the point it isn’t good to judge a book by its cover. If I saw this group walking down the street, I would automatically think there were drugs involved or at least alcohol. What refreshing knowledge that some of the bands make a conscious choice to remain drug, alcohol and tobacco free. I’m sure I wouldn’t like their alternative rock music but I certainly can respect them for living a clean life. What a grand example for their fans. I wonder if they advertise they are part of the edge movement.

In the realm of music and acting careers we hear way too often about a performer who has an addiction problem. If they don’t it seems from what we read and see on TV it is definitely a necessity to drink in order to fit in. I think it’s great that the punk movement has decided to forge their own path. Kudos to them. These young people can teach the older ones a thing or two.

Next time I hear about a punk band, or see a picture of one in the paper or on TV, I’ll think about the fact I really don’t know anything about any performer I see and I shouldn’t judge their personal life on their appearance. Guess that goes for all walks of life. Thanks for the lesson guys and gals. Keeping a straight edge is a praiseworthy action.