There is a fantastic song called "Humble and Kind" by Tim McGraw that offers great life advice by staying humble and kind. Here are different chunks of the song and an explanation as to why these lyrics are words to live by.
Go to church 'cause your mamma says to
Visit grandpa every chance that you can
It won't be wasted time
Always stay humble and kind
Taking a look at this first section, it is obvious that it is all about people older than you. Respecting your elders (like your mother) is important in life-especially for today's youth. Increasingly we see children acting out and having a sense of entitlement at very young ages. Although that is great, there is a certain level of respect you should give to those older than you.
The second point Tim McGraw makes is about spending time with grandparents. Most often people come to the realization that they should have spent more time with grandparents or seniors after it is too late. This can cause regret later in life - just heed his advice before it is too late for you.
Hold the door, say "please", say "thank you"
Don't steal, don't cheat, and don't lie
I know you got mountains to climb
But always stay humble and kind
When the dreams you're dreamin' come to you
When the work you put in is realized
Let yourself feel the pride
But always stay humble and kind
The first line puts heavy emphasis on ways to be polite and courteous. These are great actions to speak for the kind of person you are. By doing kind things like saying "please" and "thank you" it shows that you sincerely appreciate whatever happened, and although those words are small, they have a big impact.
The last couple lines address the concept of staying humble when things go well for you. Every once in awhile you, or those around you, achieve success in life; it is important to never let pride and arrogance get muddled in your brain. Pride is a great thing to have and experience, but arrogance is a socially undesirable trait. Keep that in mind when you have success in the future.
Don't expect a free ride from no one
Don't hold a grudge or a chip and here's why:
Bitterness keeps you from flyin'
Always stay humble and kind
Holding a grudge against someone is something that should be avoided in life as it only hurts the person holding the grudge and not the other way around. When holding a grudge, all it does is allow bitterness to come into your life. Bitterness, according to Tim McGraw, "keeps you from flyin;'" this could be restated that it will keep you from achieving success and being happy.
After analyzing portions of the song, it can be condensed into six simple things to remember in life:
1. Respect your elders
2. Spend time with the elderly
3. Be polite and courteous
4. Make sure you are proud, not arrogant
5. Do not hold grudges
6. Always stay humble and kind
