Music is an incredible artform that can take us to an entirely new world. We can feel so connected to the music we sense ourselves living through the song. Music is how we express our freedom, share our most heartbreaking experiences, cope with the valleys that life brings, and at times, can just be a perfect getaway. Music can be magical, and it also can have an incredible impact on our growth journey.

My wife and I recently went to Nashville to take in the beautiful city and listen to nonstop live music for a weekend. I can still feel the energy and passion in the honky tonks (yes I’m guilty of loving country music). Music over the years has become a creative way to share the experiences life provides and, in many ways, bring diverse groups together to share in their connection to the songs and lyrics.

One part of music that I’ve always loved is the creativity of song writing. The lyrics can take on their own unique meaning to each of us so that we feel the intensity of emotion through the words. Take for example a few of the following powerful lyrics:

Bob Dylan: “May you grow up to be righteous. May you grow up to be true. May you always know the truth, and see the light surrounding you. May you always be courageous, stand upright and be strong. May you stay forever young.”

Green Day: “Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go. So make the best of this test and don’t ask why. It’s not a question but a lesson learned in time. It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right.”

2 Pac: “Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else even cared.”

The visit to Nashville resurrected a love for one of my favorite Eric Church songs called “Some of It” that explores an important concept of gaining knowledge and perspective:

Some of it you read on a page

Some of it comes from heartbreak

Most of it comes with age

And none of it ever comes easy

A bunch of it you maybe can’t use

I know I don’t probably know what I think I do

But there’s somethin’ to

Some of it

I love the simplicity in the messaging of this chorus when it comes to learning through life’s different moments and opportunities. I can scroll through my songs on my phone and see “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong that takes my mind to a thankful place or an Imagine Dragons song to get the blood pumping. Words of wisdom are embedded within so much of the great music we’re lucky enough to hear.

While we have a plan for our journey ahead, most likely we’ll face plenty of disruption along the way. I’ve found music can be a great companion on this journey. The lyrics of legends in the industry somehow find meaning and understanding to some of life’s strangest of times and brings joy and passion to the peaks we’re fortunate enough to have. Embrace the perspective, humor, heartache, passion, and so many other emotions music can bring in your journey.

What song lyrics are you most connected or inspired by? Share in the comment section below.

Take your step: If you’re one that enjoys music, challenge yourself to find 3-4 songs that you find a connection with. Think about why you’re drawn to these songs, how they connect to you, and when you feel the most connected to them. Explore how music can be a great accelerator in helping you through some of the valleys your journey will have. Also explore how music can help inspire a rush of passion when your journey is fortunate enough to find some peaks.