Country music is typically an all or nothing kind of deal: you either love it or you hate it. Personally, I love it. But even for those of you that do hate it, there is one song in particular that may make you reconsider. Zac Brown Band recently came out with a song on their new album that has a bit of a different meaning. It's called “Homegrown,” and it goes a bit beyond the stereotypical beers, trucks, and girls in cut offs. The first time I heard the song, I thought nothing more of it than that it was catchy and had potential to be a 2015 summer hit. But the more I listened to it, the more it gave life to a whole new meaning; "Here in a small town, where it feels like home, I've got everything I need and nothing that I don't."
So much of our time is spent considering the things that we want. We want new clothes, jewelry, or cars; we want to live in a bigger house and make more money. I personally spend so much time going through Pinterest or Twitter and making note of all the things I wish that I had. But I’ve learned that it’s a huge waste of time! There is a big difference between the things we want and the things we need, and realizing this is often rather difficult.
At this point in my life, I think it’s extremely important to stop for a second, reflect on the things that I have, and be grateful for all of them. I should consider myself lucky that I am surrounded by so many fantastic people that love me, I go to the school of my dreams, I have a nice house to live in, and I’m healthy. That’s all I really need to be happy. All the materialistic additions are great and all, but it’s not what’s going to keep me alive and happy in the end.
I encourage you to stop comparing yourselves to others and pointing out the things you don’t have but wish you did. Instead, consider the things you do have and appreciate them. You will never be completely satisfied in life if you waste your time wishing. Take just one moment out of your day and think about it, then thank your family and your friends, and be grateful for what you do have. Be proud of where you came from and everything it has offered you. All of the little things that you take for granted are the things that probably hold the most bearing on your happiness. Here are a few of my thoughts while listening to the lyrics and what they mean to me:
“Here in a small town…” I love my little town in New Jersey - I swear our state is so much greater than what people make it out to be!
“Where it feels like home…” This is where I was born and raised - it's where my roots are.
“I’ve got everything I need…” Everyone and everything I really need is right here with me.
“And nothing that I don’t…” Yup. I wouldn’t change a thing.
