Therapist gets Sober by Tool

[@chefnoah1048]

For the millionth time, hearing a song through another person's ears has me hearing a song for the first time in 32 years.

[@neogenesis0038]

"32 years" made me vomit...good lord that's when I first heard it.

[@thothheartmaat2833]

i dont know what any of tools lyrics are and ive heard all their songs 100 times so im like oh thats what this song is about..

[@chrismclendon1166]

All poetry and art are interpretation. I always have and still feel that this song is about humankind more than just 1 person.

[@allenoriti2246]

If you listen to this song as an addict I feel the song describes life as an active user. But again it’s cool to think about it from a recovery point of view. Amazing work from Tool

[@jessicavanhorssen431]

same

[@tbrancs03]

I am an addict in recovery. Tool is my favorite band. When I decided to get clean 6 years ago and went to treatment, the clinician had us pick a recovery song. She printed out the lyrics of each of our songs for us and played them during a group session. By the end of the song, most of the group were in tears because this is exactly what addiction feels like and the internal battle that we go through. Thank you so much for putting out this video because it’s a reminder of why I choose to stay clean and not have to relive that hell ever again.

[@samhillis4320]

I remember in rehab once someone brought in "Mr. Self Destruct" by NIN. A song with quite different energy than this song, but it was kind of funny because many people had no idea wtf they were listening too.😂 Congrats on sobriety. No easy feat.

[@68AMW]

Hang in there dude and I hope you enjoy life sober. Life is for living as you only get one. All the best

[@anthonyonorato9529]

Proud of you dude

[@mxcope]

Right there with you. Another album that helped me was NIN Hesitation Marks.

[@spicedwafer]

congrats on staying clean!

[@John-4649]

Please keep going down the Tool rabbit hole!!!!

[@fbtdcfbygb1385]

No she’ll end up taking shrooms lol

[@Destructionater]

@@fbtdcfbygb1385Exactly how my dad described high school with his friends lol

[@MsFuqyu]

not down, spiral out. ride the spiral.

[@firecracker187]

Any maynard

[@firecracker187]

Pucifer

[@tattoodude8946]

Thank you for being one of the few reactors that understands the double negative of "why can't we not be sober." So many get that wrong.

[@medicmike73]

Youve got to see the live video! See the expressions of Maynard while singing.

[@Bundleofsass]

The live performance for this song is crazy. Not just because the band is just as good - if not better - live, but because Maynard’s performance is beautiful and disturbing and very real for someone experiencing addiction and withdrawal. The first time I saw it, I genuinely thought he was high af, but after reading more about him and the song and what it meant to them, I finally understood that it was all very intentional.

[@InTuGuru]

The live version is pure art

[@jimbojones8978]

@@Bundleofsass I think the live version is a remaster fwiw. So the audio is damn near perfect because of that. The performance in the live version is what's important. They do... as I recall sound just as amazing live though, so there's not a really diminishing factor, but for a video from 1993, it's quite an amazing video experience. imo.

[@matchu.j]

One of the best performances of all time...

[@leaann6445]

Please watch the live version, it hits differently.

[@Phantomselbst]

For me, the song wasn't about drug addiction, but rather addiction to destructive thinking, ultimately the ego.

[@danielhill8200]

I struggle to perceive how you even arrived at that conclusion. Can a person be addicted to a type of comprehensive thought?

[@johnthompson6374]

@@danielhill8200 Absolutely!! Our brains get "wired" from our experiences. A brain that grows up in a constant state of depression due to their surroundings will end up in such a way. Peace/JT

[@RustinChole]

@@danielhill8200are you kidding? Absolutely yes.

[@tshinn]

🎯

[@Raelwald]

@@danielhill8200 I think its not just addiction to drugs or alcohol, but addiction in general. Maynard was good friends with Layne Staley, so he saw addiction first hand. But he never experienced it himself.

[@evantarracciano4211]

If she’s a therapist, she will have a field day with “Vicarious”

[@ted1976hailspiralout]

No doubt 🤘🏻🌀

[@JaysonStark]

Try 4° or Disgustipated. Either way, More TooL.

[@xhighone]

Just a Floyd/Tool channel. That would give her like 2 years of analysis of all sorts of fun mental situations.

[@stinkasscat]

Lol​@@xhighone

[@deminybs]

if she's a therapist she will realize why it's peeps like us that listen to these good tunes instead of going to therapy lol

[@ericingham9925]

As a recovered alcoholic, it also speaks to how a user treats those around him, particularly those he loves, admitting to them that "I will only complicate you, trust in me and fall as well. I will find a center in you, I will chew it up and leave. I will work to elevate you, just enough to bring you down." Meaning, if I'm going to let alcohol destroy me, I'll manipulate you into going down with me.

[@user-tk8zh8lw8g]

That's a good analysis of that part, but I prefer to see it this way : in reality, it's the drugs that are talking "I will find a center in you I will chew it up and leave I will work to elevate you Just enough to bring you down. I'm not saying you're wrong, just that I like how Tool can make you give it different meanings and how they all make sense.

[@JL-cb8gl]

Agreed. I was a piece of sh%# using those around me to get what I wanted. People can say it was the dugs or alcohol. But no it wasn’t. It was who you were as an addict. It doesn’t have to be you anymore.

[@taistnrain2]

@@user-tk8zh8lw8g I can see it both ways. A lot of times we treat others how we feel we're treated, especially when it's dark, people desperate want to be understood and heard.... So I read in a book somewhere, His name was Bryan

[@daleschilg3973]

There is a live version of this song from Reading Festival in 1993. Watching Maynard deliver this song adds a huge next level to it! Definitely worth a watch

[@144megabytes]

I've not had addiction issues and it still makes me cry every time.

[@The_real_gaston]

I second this

[@rexahdar4199]

The live performance at Reading is one of THE great rock performances in the history of the genre,

[@troyevitt2437]

Maynard looks like the line for the loo was too long and could end up running behind the bass amps for a piddle at any moment!

[@emmabartels5692]

It’s one of the most astounding performances of all time. The power his voice has, all with what it arguably the worst possible posture for vocal power. And the emotion

[@douglasdrain]

Since you’ve heard the song, now you HAVE TO watch the live version. Maynard’s emotional performance is INSANE !!!😮

[@esoterictrinitarian1990]

Without a doubt.

[@randomsasquatchwithwifi4090]

You're a therapist? Oh, you are so going to Love Tool!

[@ericbartha7438]

And A Perfect Circle! She needs to do the entire first APC album.........

[@adampindell]

​@@ericbartha7438and second!

[@el-violador]

Tool, Nine Inch Nails, Deftones, Failure, System of a Down, Nirvana.... These are my therapists

[@edwardmunoz7853]

​@@ericbartha7438By and Down 💯🔥

[@Nanan00]

@@el-violador +Mudvayne

[@Just_a_ittle_T]

Going on 29 years of Sobriety and this song has been part of my backdrop music all along the way. Nice job interpreting it in more detail. Thanks for taking a look at this song.

[@barte3822]

I am clean and sober for almost 5 years now. Your analysis is spot on on. Undertow like sober is worth examining the addictive mind. Tool has been so important in my recovery. 46&2 was instrumental in getting through my step 4 & step 5. ✌️❤️

[@oldeskul]

Good on ya, my bro. Stay strong and keep clean! We may never meet, but know that I'm rooting for you to stay clean.

[@DJMAERZ]

5 years here as well. We got this!

[@devolve42]

"Undertow" makes me think of my brother getting sucked into the alt-right and Fox News and Q-Anon idiocy.

[@anthonydawson8080]

@@devolve42sorry to hear that :|

[@AlBrownComedy]

Almost 9 months totally sober here after 2 years of recovery. 💯 agreed and me too!

[@hepunk]

"Trust in me and fall as well I will find a center in you I will chew it up and leave I will work to elevate you Just enough to bring you down" SHEEEEEESSHHH

[@Psychonut]

I just rewatched and it reminded me how much this song resonated with me a couple decades ago when I thought I had destroyed my life and will to live. “I just want to start this over” (life) “Why can’t we sleep forever” (end this misery) ugh what a time! And I’ve doubled my years since… used to say if I can do it anyone can

[@xTRich78x]

I just recently relapsed in terrible fashion with alcohol after over a year of sobriety and this reaction video hit me hard with all the feels: tears, goose bumps, grim determination to overcome my inner demons and this cunning, baffling, and powerful addiction. I am definitely in need of support in this life-or-death struggle! ❤

[@Psychonut]

Hang in there brother I’ve fallen many times many of us have. The most important thing I’ve learned is what you do after you fall! Need to get the fuck up and fight for your life with everything you got. Identify and acknowledge toxic destructive behaviors move/get away from bad company, whatever it takes!! Jobs, relationships, whatever it is that might cause you to fall isn’t worth your own life!! Good luck my friend❤🙏

[@MJAce85]

Don't take this wrong, but it's ok to fail at sobriety. It means you're trying, and trying actively. If you have 100 addicts, maybe MAYBE 5 succeeded the first time, and in those 5, 4 are probably full of shit. It's so rare. And you're never done fighting until you're dead. Every day is another day you can fail. Don't beat yourself up. Fight. EVERY. DAY.

[@waltgaffert2554]

Hey brother xTRich78x, I'm feeling that. It seems that in my struggle with addiction, I want to reach into my soul, rip out the sickness and violently kick my addiction to the curb, that is referred to as a "hot quit". I have done that so many times! I'm thinking I need to try another game plan. It is depression and being overwhelmed with issues beyond my control that lead me to temptations. So I need to get out of my head. I'm looking for a "cold quit" that will persevere. I hope the best for your self determination and your journey into a sober lifestyle. Addiction may be behind us, but it is always RIGHT behind us it seems.. be well brother!

[@HeartSupport]

From Micro: @xTRich78x Thank you for your openness and sharing about a struggle that too often brings a huge amount of shame on our shoulders. It's hard to talk about those things, especially in light of a relapse, so I hope you can acknowledge the step you took here and be proud of yourself for it. I'm personally so thankful that you've decided to share about your own experience and how things have been recently. You absolutely don't deserve to face these challenges just on your own. There's people out there rooting for you. Relapses are some of the most challenging experiences that one can feel. You're on top, you fele in control and suddenly it feels your entire just collapses. It makes you want to retreat, give in and hide in a corner. It makes you question all your efforts, everything you've learned, all the strength and resilience you've developed over time - was it worth it? why am I trying in the first place? what's the meaning of healing really? Somehow, relapses *are* part of recovery, but knowing this doesn't always make the pill easier to swallow. Once you're in the belly of the beast, it feels like you're just caught up in fucking trainwreck, sitting both at the driver and passenger seat simultaneously. You seel the fall happening while feeling it all. It hurts like hell. My heart goes out to you as you are fighting this tough battle. If anything, this relapse will become a part of your journey, but it's not going to condition it as a whole. You've been over ONE YEAR sober - how freaking awesome and strong is that? You've spent an entire year not giving in to the urges to drink your emotions away, while feeling a huge range of things and being confronted to varied situations. You have the tangible knowledge experience of the *strength* that exists within you, of your beautiful ability to overcome this struggle. Sometimes we face situations where our vulnerability feels stronger in the equation, and a relapse happens. But I hope you can forgive yourself and offer yourself all the grace you deserve in this time, without losing sight of *why* you are working on your sobriety. We are SO very proud of you, friend, and we wholeheartedly believe in you. You can get back on your feet. :heart:

[@AlbertHoffman-mb6tv]

You just tripped man, keep running! Relapse is part of recovery.

[@FlatShoeLance]

I have dealt with alcohol addiction my whole life. The last time I ever took a sip of alcohol was October 13, 2019 at none other than a Tool concert (Aftershock). I knew it was time, and I wanted to say goodbye to alcohol while watching my favorite band. I have been to 7 more Tool concerts since and have loved each and everyone more without alcohol. Since quitting drinking, my wife (she quit drinking with me too) and I had a daughter and we both went back to school and finished our Bachelor's degrees. Life is amazing without alcohol. I love that you are doing this series and I am here for all of it.

[@toddvandell85]

Love the bass on this song. So brutally heavy. The lyrics just rip my soul to shreds. Every time. Tears flood down every time. Never make it within crying. Brilliant. Maynard is a genius. Tool are amazing.

[@nikolah.8472]

For a Therapist i would recommend for Tool "Parabol/Parabola"(allways together WITHOUT Pause). Best song for motivating you to reach out and enjoy life.

[@tao2sic]

My favorite tool song

[@edwardmunoz7853]

" We are eternal all this pain is an illusion " My favorite 💯🔥

[@jollyjohnthepirate3168]

How about her reacting to The Pot?

[@MaverickGaming]

"I will work to elevate you, just enough to bring you down" Definitely a powerful line, I get chills every time I hear it. The bad part is, addictions aside, every relationship where someone is a narcissist, they end up playing these lines out towards their partner.

[@bradical7772]

Tool songs are a treasure trove for a therapist. Don’t even know wear to begin recommending. Sooo many deep songs! Keep going you are sure to get hits.

[@RealKlausSchwab]

46 and 2. The whole song is about Jungian psychology.

[@jmazoso]

@@RealKlausSchwab Fear Innoculum is about anxiety

[@BlunderfulGuy]

0:37 "It's so dark, I can't see what's happening!" Amazingly funny, and amazingly accurate to what it's like for people with addition and depression.

[@johnnyb6067]

Thank you. About one out of every 30 reactor actually picks up on the double negative in “why can’t we not be sober?!” I think there’s a lot in Tool for you. You should definitely check out some more songs. The Undertow is mostly about struggling with addiction/abuse. The Aenima album is post addiction dealing with the world and trying to figure that out. Lateralus album is like a spiritual awakening and coming to terms with everything and finding peace.

[@scottn322]

Growing up, my mother was a hardcore alcoholic.. I struggled with it for a long time, but this song was one of many things that eventually helped me forgive her for the chaos, fear, and pain she inflicted upon me and my siblings.

[@raymondmurdock8603]

I feel like this song is about how the guilt you feel but also the judgment of others how you'll never be able to escape the shadow of blame and doubt from others or yourself even when you are sober and how that can make you want to give up on bothering to try

[@TraditionalHippie]

I think you’ve found the right TooL, and there’s no need to dwell on it brother. It usually doesn’t change. I could lament how this caricature of me is untrue. I can go so far as to say it’s a valid form of gaslighting, if weaponized against you. Some people do hold grudges. You listen to Maynard so I assume, and you assume, that people know grudges are not worth it. But just as this woman said, we tell ourselves a different story. It’s good to be judged on behavior, but if used in a tyrannical way… is brutal. My advice, don’t listen to this song again until you can isolate on the 1st person perspective

[@holyhellfml]

similarr feelings

[@HerrLindstrom]

Ima just put this out there. I have video game addiction, p*rn addiction, and marijuana dependency. Life is... survivable but getting tired of just surviving all the time. Its songs like this that make the struggle worth it.

[@Roh_Echt]

If interested in one of their songs inspired by a Carl Jung theory, try their song: 46 & 2. Many here are likely wishing you reacted to the 'Sober Live - 1993 Reading Festival' video. Another song where 'the addiction talks to the addicted' is Master of Puppets (lyrics version if possible) by Metallica...and it's a great song too.

[@itenshidoom]

And another is Pet by APC. Another great song about addiction by MJK

[@CodeNameV13]

​@@itenshidoomthe whole basis of 13th Step is addiction

I'll never understand that. The album version is a much better rendition of this song, live "angst" notwithstanding. VERY rarely does a live vocal do justice to the "original", and this is no exception, though the live version is definitely good.

[@AshsFool]

46 & 2 is my favorite Tool song, and THANK YOU for mentioning Jung! Hell Yeah! 🤘

[@MonkeyNLaLaLand]

Yes I agree totally do that one next

[@bennysmms]

You just floored me with this video! My wife and I both struggle with alcoholism for different reasons but have the same demon talking in our ears. 😭😭 I want to save her and she wants to save me. I wish we could save each other.

[@HeartSupport]

From ThriceTheThird: @bennysmms I think its noble that you both want to help each other. It must be quite hard when you both are fighting the same vice. Alcoholism is a very hard thing to deal with, and overcome. Have you guys tried any addiction therapy, or counseling of any kind? I think that to do it a lone. Even if its two people alone. Is something that can be very difficult to achieve without proper support and guidance. Addiction is a very hard Demon to overcome, but it is achievable. Feel free to share more with us if you ever want/need. <3

[@HeartSupport]

From Shan: @bennysmms Hello friend, Thank you for sharing. I commend both you and your wife for wanting to take the steps to overcome your struggles with alcoholism. Addiction of any kind is a very difficult hurdle to overcome. It definitely requires lots of support. It is amazing that you are both supportive of each other and are on the same page in regards to seeking recovery. Maybe including a professional 3rd party could be of some benefit to you both. Someone that can provide professional assistance and guidance and does not hear from the same demons. Even with the incorporation of a 3rd party, you and your wife can still help to save each other through your continued support and by holding each other accountable to your journey on recovery. I wish you both the best, and I'm rooting for you! :white_heart:

[@HeartSupport]

From jpaga: @bennysmms Hi friend, I’m sorry to hear about what you’re going through - addiction can be such a tough battle, and I wish you all the best as you navigate the situation. I think simply the awareness you have regarding your struggles is already a great first step, especially when some people deny that they have a problem to start with. The fact that you do want to ameliorate everything is a good sign, and it’s just a question of getting the right help to move things forward:) I understand that you and your wife want to help each other, and I am glad that you both have a loved one to support each other, but I believe that getting an outside perspective and working your way to the root of the problem is what may help with making progress. Just maybe something to think about, if it hasn’t been considered already! I truly hope everything works out for you and your wife, and if ever you want to share more we are always here<3

[@HeartSupport]

From Micro: @bennysmms It's hard when your partner and you are facing the same struggle(s) at the same time. You want to support each other yet at the same time you are confronted to the fact that the relationship alone may not be an asset strong enough to keep you both head above waters. In a similar manner, my partner and I experienced depression and burn out at the same time, from similar traumas, and it's been so difficult to feel *on top of it* that our relationship couldn't breathe because of the way we were feeling. It's hard to feel like you have to delineate what is about your needs, your partner's, and the ones of your relationship. To us personally, it has made a tremendous change to seek support outside of our own relationship and circle. Somehow, it has helped us - and me especially - to compartmentalize more the spaces and relationships I had in my life. My partner would know about my struggles, but he wouldn't be my therapist or savior anymore, wouldn't feel any pressure to hold this role - and vice versa. In the end, it has allowed *love* to be fully present, away from the urge we were feeling of saving each other. Somehow, the work that needs to be done is first and foremost lived individually, then it radiates on the relationship where we can hold each other accountable and be *allies*. I hope with all my heart that your wife and you will manage to find and receive support - could it be from addiction/recovery groups, therapy or even the added support of friends and family. What you are going through is heavy, but you have been doing very strong already by acknowledging the problem and naming it. There is a life beyond the alcohol, and both you and your wife can reach it. I wholeheartedly believe in you and send you as much strength as possible from afar. You can do this. You can overcome this. :heart:

[@synthe_]

I never heard anyone talk about a song like this before. I've seen vocal coach videos, but this is so much more valuable to me.

[@jenniferbarberi8584]

I am a recovering addict, March 3rd was nine years 😊 I spent most of my thirties wasted on one thing or another. This song resonates

[@timczifrik7715]

I really don't remember many years of my life. It's so fu#ked up to say that but at least my boys saw what an idiot I was.... so they had a lesson on addiction while growing up and they stay away from all that crap. So, I guess that was a good thing that came out of it all.

[@GrifonJ]

I've never seen or heard anyone break down a song like this, it's fascinating. I think I may watch more of her.

[@iancollins65]

This is a cautionary tale of an addict. The negative self talk, the feeling that you are not worthy, but also the feeling of wanting to be free from the addiction. It’s from the perspective of both the addiction itself and the addict. Maynard always has a way with his words. He can paint pictures that most won’t even try to paint.

[@kevinstull8552]

Claymation is an underrated art form that doesn't get used that much anymore, which is a shame. It can be weird and creepy at times, but yet also beautiful and fascinating all at once.

[@freddiemossberg7204]

Check out the trailer for the upcoming horror movie Stop Motion. Looks very creepy.

[@PoopscoopMcgoop204]

It was done by the guitarist too!

[@heatherkrause6787]

Love this!!! Just watching now. Sober is my favorite song. I feel the most when I listen to this song. I've been sober for 31 years and the struggle, though easier now, is still very much there. When my Dad passed, I think this was truly the first time I really thought I was going to give in. I listened to this song and the verse, I want what I want, actually enticed anger inside - I want a drink... I want what I want. Thank God I had kids that were close to their Grandpa because they helped me. This was 4 years ago, I'm glad that I chose sobriety. The shadow didn't win that day.

[@michaeldost8203]

One of my all time favorite bands!!! Please do more Tool

[@Jer6691]

Been 25 months SOBER. Thanks for your insight and feedback. ❤❤❤

[@ECCTT2000]

Fun fact: Tool’s guitarist Adam Jones directed and worked on the video’s claymation.

[@maynardcrow6447]

When he says hes singing "Im a wortlhess liar. Im just an imbicile" thats not the addiction talking, its the addict talking. The addict will lie and decieve and manipulate you to get what they want. As an ex addict heroin addict I knew what i was and would do to get want i wanted.

[@lawrencefine5020]

The Tool rabbit hole goes so deep and so far. This I like.

[@cliffadams1795]

As a recovered alcoholic, the "Why can't we sleep forever?" bit is another nuance. When you're really binge drinking, you basically sleep away your time because you just repeatedly drink until you pass out, wake up, and repeat that. I managed to keep my alcoholism to a functional level before I realized the damage it was doing to me and my relationships. But on my weekends when I didn't have to work, I basically spent 80% of my weekend asleep / passed out.

[@1Samuel1524]

One of the best songs ever made.

[@renatosales6462]

i just broke up a relationship and it led me to such a big depression that pulled me into a crack and alcohol addiction in theese last six months, i'm from Brasil and i've discover your videos wich gave me some kind of a light at the end of the tunel, things that i wanted to hear, other things i don't, but at the end this channel and your authentic way to deal with theese delicate subjects is just incredible, thanks very much and congratulations for this great work.

[@MetalManiac0285]

This band has helped me so much in my mental health journey. The band is insanely talented and Maynard James Keenan is a poet and his lyrics about the human experience connect with me so much! The Grudge is my suggestion

[@RealKlausSchwab]

46 and 2 is perfect for her, the whole song is about Jungian psychological theory.

[@iuseaspork]

Sometimes there's a song that effortlessly reaches in, grabs your soul where it's vulnerable, slaps it around a bit and shoves it back in to give you perspective on yourself. The music alone could do this to me There are more things to be addicted to than chemicals. Self loathing is a warm, comfortable, familiar, heavy, smothering, inescapable shadow that I've never been able to shake. Thank goodness for professionals like you that help us keep our shadows in check.

[@israelolguin1156]

The Package by A Perfect Circle... Great reaction. Loved it.

[@lisaredeemed5679]

I remember when I was in the throes of my addiction, I would listen to this and revel in its hopelessness and it further cemented my addiction for another 20 years. This song is dangerous because it influences you to be whimsical to abuse yourself and to turn away from not just sobriety and a better life, but also turn your back on God and all good and healthy things.

[@Dexiray]

I NEED more Tool reactions from a your perspective, a therapist perspective! They have THE lyrics for your type of break down.

[@Vaygon]

She needs to watch the live version of this James performs while singing, is totally amazing, im not a HUGE Tool fan, but any Tool fan will say you this

[@technomocarter]

I am totally and utterly loving your Tool videos

[@peterthompson8014]

I've been sober since 2008, and this song helped me in immeasurable ways.

[@urielsalazar7464]

Tool - Aenima A Perfect Circle - The Noose A Perfect Circle - Pet

[@kellyrae5829]

Ohhh the noose. But no video. He uses videos for propaganda. Just the song alone

[@cynical_rd]

This is by far my favorite artist. The band name "tool" they've claimed is through the music, u'll have the tools in your mind, to cry properly, then heal from it.. this man was raised very well with solid to the ground moral ethics. If you ever think you're hearing simple profanity or cruelty, then you've missed a word or two.. though the sense to avenge seems to be on his plate.

[@JoshOrr-yw4nu]

This is my favorite Tool song of all time..

[@stevers79tv]

Thank you so much for your video and analysis of Sober. Its been a favourite tool song of mine for 25 plus years. As an addict who recovered for 6 years then stumbled back into addiction I really appreciate your insight. The battle is real for us and I love how you turn the end of the song into a positive. I've seen the other side being sober for 6 years and it's encouraging to see it from that perspective again. Peace and Love.

[@mondellharris5369]

More T00L.. Ur awesome

[@jessicahanak9474]

As a recovering alcoholic, this song means so much more to me now.

[@Mandonburphy]

Not something i was expecting to see today but i am very excited to hear any input you may have from a Tool experience 🤟🤟🤟🌀🌀🌀spiral out, keep going

[@seaypolhemus4989]

I love how apt her interpretation is! She has obviously seen these symptoms time and time again.

[@iesickboy]

As a long time alcoholic, seeing a therapist that happens to be incredibly beautiful uncover one of my favorite bands is right up my alley. Thank you.

[@adamburgins441]

SIMP

[@BunkyBoo]

I've seen quite a few of your videos and stumbled on this one as I used this song ony IG reel and did a search to find the full song. I have always liked Tools sound but also I have 5 years sober today. It is not an easy task to get here. Especially when using became a coping mechanism for deeper rooted pain but the consequences of using causes more pain than not. Facing yourself, free of any addiction is scary but it becomes easier with time. I can say that today I'd rather feel than numb out. To all who are trying to get sober, just keep it one day at a time. You got this! ❤

[@brendonjune]

So glad to see you cover this song and topic. I am a sober alcoholic addict with a few years of sobriety. If you need help it’s out there it’s free and it’s worth it and so are you.

[@KeithSmithColossalArts]

2:41 what about it being about how a person abused sees everyone around them, while they numb with alcohol or drugs? Sometimes the abused feel like everyone sees the deficiency in them, whether or not that’s true. That forces the abused further into themselves and into their addiction and away from what could be helping hands of healing.

[@W00dy590]

Your Tool journey continues, i recommend you try schism for a really deep video.

[@shauntemplet]

After 15 years sober, and 30 years as a tool fan, this video had a tear roll down my cheek. This interpretation is exactly What I needed today. Thank you.

[@roopepitkanen3324]

Gojira The Art Of Dying

[@LanceThompsonKssooner]

Here for TOOL! Greatest band ever! And probably one of the deepest groups you will hear.

[@qotsa2k4]

Interesting to see another perspective. I was once an alcoholic. This song is the exact depiction of why we need help to recover. We will just drink forever, and question why we can’t. While knowing we’re doing something wrong. Yet having no control over it.

[@davealbert865]

"I was once an alcoholic". Believe me you still are. And I don't mean that in a bad way.

[@theebulll]

Stinkfist next pleeease. I even said please.

[@leviharrison1545]

I'm a year and a half sober now, and even before I made the decision to be this song really spoke to me. It speaks to me not only on the addiction front but it also feels like the voice of depression reaching out from the shadows and trying to take me away. I am just a worthless liar, I am just an imbecile, I will over-complicate you, trust in me and fall as well. That always felt like how my behavior, my actions were treating my friends and family. I will find the center in you, I will chew it up and leave. That always made me think of the people who do try and help and my venomous actions hurt them in response. This song has definitely picked me up from a few bad spots but it also symbolizes some bad things I have done. It is nuanced and it is powerful.

[@leakyboomboomman3098]

Congratulations on being sober for a year and a half! I have a family member who has struggled with it and I understand how difficult it is.

[@blessjesus-o2b]

Would - Alice in chains

[@jeremeywilson2318]

TOOL ~ Stinkfist!!! A Perfect Circle ~ By and Down

[@GreySavo]

The self-centered part of me wants to qualify. I was in a coma for 4 weeks due to a suicide attempt back in May 3rd of 2021. I've been sober since June 19th of 2022 and with the program of alcoholics anonymous and a lot of help from music. Like mostly music and now I'm lead singer in a band I started. Life has never been so beautiful! Whatever you're going through, it's a choice to go through it alone and I suggest you reach out to someone because you might be helping them in the process.

[@theodorebear6714]

I understood immediately that this song was not about alcohol addiction. We all connect to something that we obsess over that defines us. *Our behaviors can be as damaging and addictive as any substance.*

[@Veuxdeux666]

Gosh. I feel so much better now that a theropist explained Sober to me....This is her interpretation of the song.. Be yourself and interpret it how ever you like...Sober could mean so many things..It doesn't just revolve around drugs...Don't follow. Take the lead..🤘

[@JimmyRJump]

You're way off with the worthless analysis. It's not the addiction trying to lure you in, it's the inability to stop that makes you feel worthless, not able to change the behaviour and that behaviour will drag down everyone the addict comes into contact with.

[@jonscottacord]

I bet you're a.big hit with all the ladies.

[@vincentnavarre7431]

Nailed it.

[@henrytoler7327]

Lol. It takes an addict to really know one. You're spot on. Btw, not saying you are an addict. Just that she doesn't quite get it, despite being a therapist

[@dubyajayyo]

Addiction is not an entity separate from you that is making you do things. Addiction is a choice.

[@JimmyRJump]

@@henrytoler7327 Well, I'm an alcoholic who sometimes drinks and sometimes doesn't. I've learned to live with it and am not afraid of falling off the wagon cuz I know I can climb back on.

[@ShaynePatton]

And that voice (Why can we not)..... is so so so loud comparatively..... Overwhelmingly clear when the other words are so soft & seem to run together......

[@egilredspear6827]

Great reaction. You HAVE to go watch the live performance of this song (Reading Festival 1993)... his personification of addiction makes the song heartwrenching. His stage presence and physical performance is absolutely amazing. Makes it an ENTIRELY different experience

[@MichaelDavis-si9bv]

If u were my therapist and u told me u listened to Tool, I would for sure fall in love with u and our sessions would have to end. 😢

[@BubblesJrJr]

I can't even really describe how these words and the power of the music relate to our lives. If YOU aren't the addict, you feel what people near you are possibly feeling. If you ARE the addict, your reaction possibly would run much deeper. I'm an addict who is long in recovery but not 100% free of "that" voice inside me. I got him on low, because I never want that a-hole to think he's going to "win" again. I think we all know how he wins, and how that only take a few minutes to jump right on top of us. The song doesn't judge. It holds our hands ❤

[@anthonysage4323]

Always, for the last twenty years. You never get over it. It changes you forever

[@derekthue8026]

She does so good at relating to the lyrics- and explaining them

[@michaelfoti8123]

Tools has the deepest lyrics. I have been using tool to overcome the most difficult, mentally challenging times and it only gets better. Please continue with the Tool analysis. I recommend Schism next.

[@01bonny790]

16+ yrs sober and this is arguably my favorite Tool Song. Many of their songs are pretty open for interpretation but this one is pretty straight forward. It encapsulates the internal dialogue/struggle of addiction very succinctly, as does your take on it. Thank you

[@markbaltierra7226]

You are so perceptive on things. I have seen a lot of people react to Tool and the fans have to correct them to what the lyrics really meant to the band and you nailed it them all on your own. If I had issues, you’d be the first therapist I’d call!

[@Deguello23]

"Waiting like a stalking butler" is one of my favorite short lines in a song, ever. It's just really evocative.

[@joshcarpenter2008]

For many in my generation this was the first Tool song we ever heard. Been a fan ever since. Top notch musicians whose songs have so much depth. Keep listening as many before me have said the best Tool song is the next one...

[@shaunfogarty3020]

Maynard has been the impetus of so much healing in the world. He has given a voice to the alone and voiceless, torn masses.

[@cavemanO11]

It's a rare occasion where the "live" version is as good, or better, than the "studio" version. Sober BLOWS this pet peeve of mine out of the water... The "live" video shows SO MUCH more guttural emotion.

[@skyrat3816]

I've been listening to tool for a good few years and this one hits hard. Knowing it's about drinking. Being a drinker since late teens to cope in social situations and to numb internal struggles. Until a therapist said it becomes a problem when you can't feel the heat in spirits is when I stopped binging a year and a half ago. Then had a blow out the other month at a social event and I get it now why people who've drank heavily run away from spilt brandy or whisky like its a snake. Hearing your take on sober with the "voice of addiction" has made the penny drop why this song hits the way it does.

[@SteveReddington]

One of the greatest videos of all time!!!

[@dakotawilliams6725]

I clicked on this video just to hear the song again for the thousandth time, thinking I was not going to be interested in your opinion. I was pleasantly surprised. I do not have an addictive personality so your perspective changed how I view this song. I have had this CD since it was released along with the special edition DVD of some of their videos back then. You made me feel like I never paid close enough attention to the words. Thank you...

[@paulhenry9051]

Did not read all the comments but you need to watch the live version of sober to really get the full interpretation of this song. His performance is just so spot on for the subject matter.

[@horbags1181]

I've always interpreted the end of this song from the other perspective. It's the addiction finally consuming the adict, telling him "Trust me" I know what's best for you, and the user giving in to his addictions, admiting to himself that he'll never escape his vice; "I want what I want" is him conceding this.

[@randallphobia8698]

Screaming along with this during a brutal bout of depression in the 90s helped me to feel better. Luckily I didn’t fall into self medication, but Tool is one of the bands that helped me work things off. Thanks to that this song actually makes me happy now. Thanks Tool.

[@MehmetN]

Oh goddess, you picked up the second verse was the addiction in one go. I respect you a lot now.

[@cpk1977]

I’m an addict in 7 years of sobriety. When I hear Sober I instantly feel guilt, pain and sadness. I’m alive and strong today but those times never truly leave your mind.

[@joshuah5121]

3 years sober. This song was one of many things that helped me deal with the struggles of cravings and society's norms.

[@chinito398]

This song by tool is amazing not only because it draws such a perfect picture of someone under that addiction but paralleling that addiction to someone who is battling their own blind belief, specifically here Christianity.

[@jasonnorton927]

For these I just turn the sound off and watch this gals facial expressions which ARE THE GREATEST THING EVER❤

[@ryanfowler3285]

I feel like i watch 20+ reaction channels. And yours is absolutely worth adding to the top of the list. Im barely six months sober and 4 months clean and i cant believe i never heard these lyrics this way before today. Good stuff Doc.