Country song “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw holds great symbolic meaning. Written by Lori McKenna, it’s a reminder of the valuable lessons we were taught when we were younger. McGraw successfully brings this touching tune to life with a beautiful musical arrangement and universal message.
Growing up and experiencing life in your 20s can be challenging. You might still be figuring out who you are, what you want to do and where you’ll end up. McGraw recognizes that we all have mountains to climb, but reminds us that when childhood stars shine, always stay humble and kind.
Here are some of the lessons McGraw draws upon:
1. Go to church ‘cause your mama says to.
As a child, we always dreaded getting up early on Sundays for church. Little did we realize how vital this one-hour of reflection and worship is for our own self-improvement. Faith is based in the heart and helps to make us better people. No matter what religion you are, it is important to have faith, hope and to believe in something. When you’re young, you may not know what that might be, but you should listen to your parents when they tell you to go to church or any other house of worship.
2. Visit grandpa every chance that you can.
Your grandparents are knowledgeable and they can teach you a lot from their own past experiences. When you’re facing difficulty in life, there is no one better to come to for advice. It is important to cherish every moment you spend with them because they won’t be here forever. “It won’t be wasted time.”
3. Hold the door. Say “please”, say “thank you.”
Having manners and being polite are among the top things our parents instill in us. Manners can go a long way in helping us with our personal and professional development. Saying “thank you” shows gratitude for another person’s act of kindness and simply holding the door can make someone’s day.
4. Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie.
One of the most important rules you were taught when you were young is golden for a reason. You should always treat others the way you want to be treated and think before you act. It’s not worth the guilt or regret. The law of reciprocity is essential in order to live an ethical, moral life.
5. Don’t expect a free ride from no one.
There is nothing easy in life. You can’t expect things to simply be handed over to you; you work for them. You overcome the obstacles that are thrown your way through perseverance and strength. From each challenge in life, we grow wiser and stronger.
6. Don’t hold a grudge or a chip.
It’s not worth holding grudges towards others. We’re all human and we all make mistakes. We have to move on and accept the fact that no one is perfect. In order to make peace, we must have forgiveness. Only “bitterness keeps you from flyin,’” and forgiving someone sets you free.
7. Don’t take for granted the love this life gives you.
To love and be loved is the greatest gift in life. It’s what helps get you through the bad times and the good. Surround yourself with the people you love and remind them daily of how much they mean to you. Often times people don’t realize what they have until it’s gone.
8. When you get where you’re going don’t forget to turn back around.
When your life is finally heading in the right direction, don’t forget who was there for you when you were at your worst. Never turn your back on the people who stood by you during the difficult times. More important than the direction in which you are heading is the people who helped you get there (AKA Mom & Dad).
9. Help the next one in line.
Pass on the love and never stop doing little things for others. A small, kind gesture can capture a large part of someone else’s heart and make a difference. Humility and kindness are the greatest gifts we can give to one another. It is through giving that we receive.
And last but not least…
10. Always stay humble and kind.
