Hardcore and Punkrock-my first 2 loves.

I first got into hardcore in 1986. I had started skateboarding and my Aunt bought me a subscription to Thrasher Magazine for Christmas one year. Back in the 80's Thrasher was in b/w and was half punkrock and hardcore music. I learned about many bands in this zine. My best friend at the time started going to shows at the Anthrax in Norwalk CT. He was a year older and the product of divorce. His Dad didn't keep track of him like my parents did of me. While my parents would not let me goto any shows at the Anthrax untill I turned 16, my friend would pick up records and other merchandise to share with me. The first tape I made was Murphy's Law S/T and The Cro-Mags Age of Quarell, with some Minor threat thrown in at the end. I wore this tape down untill I finally bought the records for myself.
Fast forward to the year 2007. I am 34 and still into hardcore and punk. I still look like a punker and goto shows many times a month. I love hardcore. If it wasnt for this music I might have suceeded in killing myself during the 90's. Having gone through alot during my 20's and suceeding in getting off of hard drugs in my 30's, hardcore and punk has become increasingly important in my life. Without it I am nothing. So to all the bands, labels and other persons involved in getting the music out- I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It all means so much to me. More than you will ever know. Hardcore is not just for kids. Support and have respect for the older people at shows and in the scene, even if they are female. Do not for one minute think that hardcore/punk is just for the guys or for the kids. If you think that hardcore is just for you and your friends, you are sadly mistaken and have no idea what it is all really about.