By Ray Martinez, “Unbridled Inspiration”
We all have heard the song, “Last Night A DJ Saved My Life.” As professional DJs, we really do have an impact on the lives of people whether we realize it or not.
In this article, I am going to share two stories with you that are in total contrast with each other; one where the DJ did indeed save a life, and the other, well, that story did not turn out so well…
Story #1
Hall of Fame DJ John Roberts of Certified DJs in Maryland shared this story with me, and here’s how I remember how he told it:
“Once, when I was DJing at a club, a gentleman requested a song. I played it but noticed that the guy never came out to dance.
I found out later that he had walked out of the club when it was over. The man came back a few weeks later, thanked me for playing the song he had requested, and told me so.
Much to my shock and dismay, he also told me that he had intended to blow out his brains that night because when he came home from work, his wife of many years left a note saying she had decided to leave him for another man.
He went on to say that he had come to the club instead. Naturally feeling very depressed by the news, he had requested that particular song because he and his wife had danced to at their wedding, and he wanted to hold on to a beautiful memory he shared with his soon to be estranged wife.
I am grateful to know the epilogue to this story because a long time after this encounter I saw this gentleman again, and learned that he had bared his pain long enough to eventually find love again. I felt relieved and happy for him.”
Story #2
As no doubt you’ve heard on the news, two Australian DJs, Michael Christian and Mel Greig, pulled a prank on a London hospital where Kate Middleton was being treated, pretending to be Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth.
The phone call was answered by a nurse named Jacinta Saldanha, who put the DJs through to the Duchess’ room.
After learning that she had been duped by the DJs, the nurse committed suicide, the story became international news, the DJs were fired, and everyone connected with those involved will have to live with this tragedy for the rest of their lives.
Getting the Lesson
Unfortunately, in the society we live in today, this is an example of how words and actions can really hurt someone. Hopefully this will be a “wake up call” for all of us to be more accountable by really thinking before we speak, and taking ownership for what we do and say.
My fellow colleagues, and friends, words can be sharper than a double-edged sword that cuts deeply to someone’s heart – so please, think before you speak and act, and let kindness to others be your guide.
