Releasing dead dreams and dashed hopes is hard. That's why, on the afternoon of December 31, 2009, more than 200 local people gathered to support each other in this effort -- with laughter, music, and the best of dark humor.

This funeral sing-along event, "Nothing Holding Me Back," was the brainchild of local author "Cemetery Mary" Patrick Kavanaugh. It was held at one of Oakland's architectural treasures, the Chapel of the Chimes.

Watch the video...

UPDATE JAN. 4: This video mis-identifies two of the vocalists. Reggie Bass (not Cedric Long) led the singing of "50 Ways to Kick a Habit." Also, Darren Venn (not Reggie Bass) portrayed famed French singer Edith Piaf. Oakland Local regrets the error and will attempt to correct the video.

Participants wrote anonymously onto mock dollar bills what they wanted to release, then queued up to ceremoniously drop them into an elegant open casket. What were they giving up? Here's what some attendees, who preferred to remain anonymous, told Oakland Local:

• "Being angry at my brother. He's still a jerk, but that's just how it is. So what?
• "Wanting to keep my house. I love it, but I can't afford it anymore."
• "Skittles. I'm totally hooked on Skittles."
• "I love someone who just doesn't love me back. Gotta let go of that one."
• "I will never, ever be 25 again."
• "I'm not going to finish that master's degree. And I'm OK with that."

Cemetery Mary's co-hosts were the "Fairy of Forgiveness" Felicia Jeffley, and the "Rev Up" James Jeffley. Other astounding local talent, including vocalists Cedric Long, Lisa Cohen, Reggie Bass, Darren Venn, and rapper V-Virtuous gave stunning renditions of popular songs reworked to fit the event's theme, such as 50 Ways to Kick a Habit:

"Stop blaming your mom, Tom
Don't need to hate dad, Tad
Just have to accept, Shep
And get yourself free

"You don't have to cheat, Pete
Just turn off the cell, Nell
Start telling the truth, Ruth
And get yourself free..."

This fundraiser benefited local charities, including George Mark Children's House, Jingletown Arts and Business Community, and East Bay Church of Religious Science Youth Programs.

Did you miss this event? It's not too late! Comment below (anonymously, if you like) to say what held you back in 2009 that you wish to release for 2010. Then go sing a song with friends, laugh, and move forward.