The other day, I heard the song “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw, and it truly made me think. Too often, I come across someone who seems unhappy, or just rude for no reason. I feel as though anyone can benefit from listening to this song, and here’s why:
The first few lines
of the chorus go, “Hold the door, say please, say thank you. Don’t
steal, don’t cheat and don’t lie.”
As corny and ridiculous as it sounds, these words made me think about how short life is, and how so many people spend so much of their time being angry. This has been something that has always bothered me, and I will be the first to admit that I can become angry quite easily. However, as I get older I realize more each day what is worth getting upset over and what is not. I have learned to focus on the positive and come to know that there is good in everything, you just have to look for it.
Throughout the song, McGraw sings about the simplicity’s of life, and how they need to be enjoyed—that every breath we are given is precious. Words such as, “Go to church ‘cause your momma said so, visit grandpa every chance that you can”. It seems as though now a days people are so caught up in social media, work, or other things that keep them away from the things that truly matter.
Spending time with those who hold importance in your life is something that should always take priority. Make sure that these people know that you care about them. Even if you cannot see them, call them, talk to them so that they know you are thinking of them. The little details in life are what give meaning to the bigger picture. Take the time to notice these things. Wake up early and watch the sunrise, compliment at least one person a day; these things are not that hard to do, and will change your perspective on life entirely.
My favorite two lines of the song say, “Don’t hold a grudge or a chip and here’s why, bitterness keeps you from flying”. People are going to make you angry sometimes, and there will be some people who really hurt you, but it is up to you to be the bigger person. Kill them with kindness, and get on with your life. There is not enough time in this life to waste any second staying angry with someone, especially if it is someone that you care about. Do not let petty nonsense get in the way of a relationship.
When we hold on to the negativity that life can sometimes throw at us, we are holding ourselves back from so many things. Why spend your time dwelling on a past mistake or argument? You are preventing yourself from seeing the beauty in life. We are the ones who hold the power to turn things around for the better.
I once heard a saying that went something like, “There is no such thing as a neutral interaction; you either give life, or you drain it.” This resonates closely to what the song is saying as well. For example, when you pass by someone as you are going about your day, they will either smile at you, maybe say hello or some other sort of kind interaction or they will give you none at all. Think about how either of these interactions make you feel. More than likely, if someone gives you a blank look, with a grim looking face, it will dampen your mood and in turn make you think negatively about that person. Conversely, seeing someone smile at you will presumably make you smile at well—like they always say, “Smile, it’s contagious!”
So, next time you interact with a stranger, or even a friend or family member, think about all of this. Think about how little time that you really get here on this earth, and how you want to spend that time. Think about whether you are giving life, or draining it. And always remember to see the beauty in life, no matter how bad things may seem. Always stay Humble and Kind.
