One Shot
Some time ago I heard a podcast – if I recall, from a self-proclaimed “nomad”. Interesting life. He preached what used to be called “rugged individualism” – think for yourself, live live on your own terms. I saved the email I sent to him and used it as fodder for this lyric.
Lyric:
They line us up in rows, teach us how to stand,
Gold stars for obedience, a script already planned.
Hands raised for permission, eyes glued straight ahead,
They call it “education,” it’s programming we’re fed.
They say follow the rules, don’t leave the road,
Don’t question the narrative, just do as you’re told.
Think for yourself, don’t wait for the cue,
This is your life, there’s only one you.
If the path fits your feet, walk it proud, sing it loud,
But don’t lose your voice in the middle of the crowd.
(Your life!)
(One shot!)
Some love the routine, the keys to the gate,
The house, the cars, the numbers, the weight.
If that fills your soul, then stand in that truth,
No shame in a life that honestly suits you.
I’ve been disillusioned, chased empty dreams,
Running in circles like a pointless machine.
They call it security, they call it “be smart,”
But quiet desperation still tears you apart.
Think for yourself, don’t wait for the cue,
This is your life, there’s only one you.
You don’t owe the herd your breath or your time,
You weren’t born just to stand in line.
(Stand up!)
(One shot!)
No promise you’ll make it to sixty-five,
No guarantee that any of it will survive.
Do you trust the banks, the congress, the rest?
Even the ticking truth inside your own chest?
Tomorrow’s a story nobody can tell,
Now is the only place you can live it well.
(Here!)
(Right now!)
Think for yourself, let the doubts burn down,
Build your meaning on solid ground.
Run if you need, stay if it’s true,
Just make sure the choice is you.
(Your life!)
(Your choice!)
(One shot!)
Whatever it means, whatever it costs,
Don’t trade your heartbeat for something you’re not.
Live your life now…
(One shot!)