Tag Archives: Mental Health

The Message Behind the Music-July 16

Posted on July 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

U.S.A. For Africa – We Are the World

Inspiration Behind We Are the World:

More than 45 artists, bands, singers and songwriters gathered to raise funds for the charity USA for Africa. This collaboration conceived We Are the World, one of the greatest projects ever by the music industry. After selling over 800,000 copies of We Are the World in 3 days, USA for Africa raised more than $60 million for famine relief. If this type of unity existed today, I can only imagine what would be accomplished.

Biblical Application:

“Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33 I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” – Acts 20:32-35

Exegesis of We Are the World:

[Verse 1]
There comes a time when we heed a certain call
When the world must come together as one
There are people dying, oh, and it’s time to lend a hand to life
The greatest gift of all

Everyone needs a helping hand from time to time. Following extreme conditions, a natural disaster, or unforeseen events, the world must come together to provide aid and support. Especially, when this is a matter of life and death.

[Verse 2]
We can’t go on pretending day by day
That someone, somewhere will soon make a change
We are all a part of God’s great big family
And the truth, you know love is all we need

Ignoring this need by doing nothing won’t make this problem go away. The quicker people act, the better off the suffering will be. Start viewing any crisis as an extended part of God’s family. Like the Bible states, you will know true followers of Jesus by their love.

[Chorus: Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Both]
We are the world
We are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me

Human beings are all connected in some form or another. Don’t miss the opportunity to brighten up a stranger’s day. Make a choice to give out of your abundance. The act of giving will make someone’s day.

[Verse 3: Dionne Warwick, Dionne Warwick & Willie Nelson, Willie Nelson, Al Jarreau]
Well, send them your heart so they know that someone cares
And their lives will be stronger and free
As God has shown us by turning stone to bread
And so we all must lend a helping hand

Give from your heart. Help be the one to provide daily bread to the hungry.

[Chorus: Bruce Springsteen, Kenny Loggins, Steve Perry & Daryl Hall]
We are the world
We are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving
Oh, there’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me

As the chorus is repeated, other artists have a chance to sing. Start to see life on an international level. This will open your eyes to the true needs of society.

[Bridge]
When you’re down and out, and there seems no hope at all
But if you just believe, there’s no way we can fall
Well, well, well, let us realize, oh, that a change can only come
When we stand together as one (Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)

Remember when you were in need, when hope of intervention grew dim. This is where belief and faith step in. When the world begins to realize that change is possible, unity is possible for a common cause.

[Chorus]
We are the world
We are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day

A reminder of a global vision, seeing all human beings as children, brothers and sisters. This mindset increases the likeliness of giving.


Just you and me
We are the world
We are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me
We are the world (We are the world)
We are the children (We are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me (Alright, let me hear you)


The final 4 stanzas are identical, giving everyone participating in this project a chance to sing. Giving makes this world a better place to live. Giving is a choice that has amazing benefits as it’s better to give than receive.

We are the world (We are the world)
We are the children (Said we are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a brighter day
Just you and me
Come on, y’all, let me hear you
We are the world (We are the world)
We are the children (We are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me, yeah, yeah

Brighten up someone’s life today. Acting now can save someone’s life. Make giving a lifestyle.

We are the world (We are the world)
We are the children (We are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
Yeah, we’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me (Yeah, yeah, woah-oh, oh-oh)
We are the world (We are the world; ooh, ooh-ooh)
We are the children (We are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start givin’ (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me

If you set the tone by giving, others will follow you.

We are the world (We are the world)
We are the children (We are the children; yes, sir)
We are the ones that make a brighter day (We are the world)
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me, hoo-hoo
We are the world (Good God; we are the world)
We are the children (We are the children)
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving (So let’s start giving)
(Alright, did you hear what I said?)
There’s a choice we’re making
We’re saving our own lives
It’s true, we’ll make a better day
Just you and me

Don’t live your life focused on your own life. Stop, take a look around and see who needs your help.

Final Thoughts:

My neighbor had tickets to watch Live Aid at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia. Since the temperature was 96 degrees with high humidity, I declined this offer. As a high school junior at the time, I didn’t realize the impact that this event would make. Instead, I watched from the luxuries of air conditioning at home. I do regret missing this amazing concert that has gone down in the annuals of music history.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-June 19

Posted on June 19, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind I Gotta Feeling:

I Gotta Feeling was inspired by U2’s Beautiful Day. With this concept in mind, the chorus of I Gotta Feeling was influenced by Maurice White of Earth, Wind and Fire who gives off a certain flair and vibe. When you add ideas from David Guetta’s beat and concepts from Talking Heads, the foundation for I Gotta Feeling was set. This song is a true credit to what can happen when a collective group of ideas comes together to form a classic song.

Biblical Application:

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord, Ephesians 5:6-10.

Exegesis of I Gotta Feeling:

I got a feeling
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night
A feeling
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night

There is a sense, filled with positivity that tonight is going to be special.

[Will.I.am & Fergie {will.I.am}:]
{A feeling (Woo-hoo)}
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night
{A feeling (Woo-hoo)}
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night (Fee-)

A good attitude sets the tone for this evening.

Tonight’s the night, let’s live it up
I got my money, let’s spend it up (I feel-)
Go out and smash it like oh my God
Jump off that sofa, let’s kick it off (I feel-)
{I know that we’ll have a ball}
{If we get down and go out and just lose it all}
I feel {stressed out, I wanna let it go}
Let’s go way out, spaced out, and losin’ all control

There is excitement to make the most of this evening. Seizing this opportunity to have as much fun as possible by letting your guard down and letting loose.

[Will.I.am {Fergie}:]
Fill up my cup, mazel tov
Look at her dancin’, just take it off (I feel-)
Let’s paint the town, we’ll shut it down
Let’s burn the roof
{And then we’ll do it again} (I feel-)
Let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it
And do it, and do it, {let’s live it up}
And do it, and do it, and do it, do it, do it
Let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it

A call to have a great night out on the town, dancing and living life to its fullest.

[Will.I.am {Fergie}:]
‘Cause I got a feeling (Woo-hoo)
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night
A feeling (Woo-hoo)
{That tonight’s gonna be a good night}
{That tonight’s gonna be a good night}
{That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night} (Fee-)

Back to the positive energy and vibes.

Tonight’s the night (Hey)
Let’s live it up {Let’s live it up}
I got my money (I’m paying)
Let’s spend it up (Let’s spend it up)
Go out and smash it {Smash it}
Like oh my God (Like oh my God)
Jump off that sofa (Come on), let’s kick it off

A call to go crazy, acting like a little kid.

Fill up my cup {Drank}
Mazel tov (L’chaim)
Look at her dancin’ {Move it, move it}, just take it off
Let’s paint the town (Paint the town)
We’ll shut it down (Shut it down)
Let’s burn the roof
{And then we’ll do it again}
Let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it
And do it, and do it, {let’s live it up}
And do it, and do it, and do it, do it, do it
Let’s do it, let’s do it, let’s do it, do it, do it, do it

The beginning of this stanza suggests that this party is getting out of hand with people living without constraints..

Here we come, here we go, we gotta rock
Easy come, easy go, now we on top
Fill the shot, body rock, rock it don’t stop
Round and round, up and down, around the clock
{Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (Do it)}
{Friday, Saturday, Saturday to Sunday (Do it)}
{Weekend get-get-get with us, you know what we say}
{Party every day, p-p-p-party every day}

This stanza reminds me of the old danceathons with Dick Clark. If it’s summertime, there is a call to go dancing every night this week, dance until you drop.

[Will.I.am & Fergie {will.I.am}:]
{And I’m feeling (Woo-hoo)}
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night
{A feeling (Woo-hoo)}
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good, good night

There is a mentality that nothing is going to ruin our night out on the town.

Final Thoughts:

Dancing became one of my favorite hobbies in college. I would drive up to route 1 in Pennsylvania to dance at a club named Pulsations. This 3-story club had the most room to dance in the Tri-state area. The more I went dancing, the better I got. I don’t ever recall having a bad time dancing at this club. It was a special place that reminds me of the song I Gotta Feeling.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-May 14

Posted on May 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Barbra Streisand Neil Diamond – You Don’t Bring Me Flowers

Inspiration Behind You Don’t Bring Me Flowers:

Marilyn Bergman told a story about a couple drifting apart at a songwriter’s workshop with Neil Diamond in attendance. Television producer Norman Lear was looking for a theme song for Glitters, asking Neil to write one. Diamond took the idea from this workshop and crafted You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, asking Barbara Streisand to sing this duet. Since Glitter was about the reversal of roles; this concept led Diamond to craft lyrics of a couple sharing their true feelings.

Biblical Application:

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. 14 Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble, Proverbs 28:13-14.

Exegesis of You Don’t Bring Me Flowers:

You don’t bring me flowers
You don’t sing me love songs
You hardly talk to me anymore
When you come through the door
At the end of the day

The excitement and joy of this relationship is fading away. Conversation has ceased.

I remember when
You couldn’t wait to love me
Used to hate to leave me

Where is the passion that once kept you with me as long as you could stay.

Now after lovin’ me late at night
When it’s good for you
And you’re feeling alright
Well, you just roll over
And you turn out the light

Making love together has all but stopped except when the timing is right.

You don’t bring me flowers anymore

The love that you once clearly displayed is missing.

It used to be so natural
To talk about forever
But ‘used to be’s’ don’t count anymore
They just lay on the floor
‘Til we sweep them away

This relationship is falling apart as this couple seems to be drifting in different direfctions.

And baby, I remember
All the things you taught me
I learned how to laugh
And I learned how to cry
Well I learned how to love
Even learned how to lie

There was a time when this couple invested their time and energy into this relationship. Now they have learned to lie to one another.

You’d think I could learn
How to tell you goodbye
‘Cause you don’t bring me flowers
Anymore

Each is afraid of ending this relationship, but their actions, a lack of love, have clearly spoken.

Well, you’d think I could learn
How to tell you goodbye
‘Cause you don’t bring me flowers
Anymore

There is still hope for love and passion, but thoughts of ending this relationship have become prevalent.

Final Thoughts:

Relationships built on physical attraction often come to an abrupt ending. However, relationships built upon common goals and interests, have a much better chance of surviving. This is where having a will to love someone comes into play. Despite what you experience, feel or see, I won’t stop loving. When couples learn to meet and please the needs of their partners, love only intensifies. This is what is missing from You Don’t Bring Me Flowers where love is all about what have you done for me lately. While all relationships become stale from time to time, helping and serving those whom you love will keep passion alive.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-April 17

Posted on April 17, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Three Days Grace – Pain (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Pain:

The lyrics of Pain comes from lead singer Adam Gontier’s experience battling an addiction to OxyContin. Pain was a daily battle during Adam’s rehab. The lyrics point to a more graphic and honest assessment of what is takes to fully recover from a drug addiction. Pain has become an anthem for individuals facing hardship and emotional turmoil.

Biblical Application:

Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize, 1 Corinthians 9:26-27.

Exegesis of Pain:

Pain, without love
Pain, I can’t get enough
Pain, I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

OxyContin is a pain killer than takes away your pain after a major surgery. Unfortunately, this is an extremely addictive substance. This is the context of the opening stanza.

You’re sick of feeling numb
You’re not the only one
I’ll take you by the hand
And I’ll show you a world that you can understand

Adam wants to help people facing a similar addiction today. Leading others through this pain and helping them understand what’s at stake.

This life is filled with hurt
When happiness doesn’t work
Trust me and take my hand
When the lights go out, you’ll understand

Adam is either referring to coping with addiction at night or before you undergo a major surgery and get knocked out until the procedure has been completed.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

Adam explains that pain is a good thing while trying to free his body from the use of OxyContin.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

Feeling pain means that he is not taking OxyContin.

Anger and agony
Are better than misery
Trust me, I’ve got a plan
When the lights go off, you’ll understand

Adam provides a series of emotions that he endured during rehab, explaining that anger and agony are signs of progress and recovery.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

Overcoming addiction is like fighting another boxer, trying to be defensive with an occasion jab to be proactive.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing
Rather feel pain

Unless you have been to rehab or struggled to overcome bad habits, you need mental toughness that exists inside a long-distance runner and a heavy weight champion.

(I know, I know, I know, I know)
I know that you’re wounded
(You know, you know, you know, you know)
That I’m here to save you
(You know, you know, you know, you know)
I’m always here for you
(I know, I know, I know, I know)
That you’ll thank me later

This song serves as emotional support and encouragement to keep battling until you are freed from addiction.

Pain, without love
Pain, can’t get enough
Pain, I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

Stick it out and keep fighting as pain will be a daily presence.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all

This repetitive chorus suggests that the end of this song is near.

Pain (pain), without love
Pain (pain), I can’t get enough
Pain (pain), I like it rough
‘Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all
Rather feel pain than nothing at all
Rather feel pain

The first step to recovery is acknowledging that you have a problem. Loved ones can’t fully help you until you reach this point in life. Pain is a reality of life. However, once addiction is conquered, there will be another set of challenges waiting for you to face.

Final Thoughts:

We all have dark periods in our lives, often influenced by poor choices. Some people recover without anyone noticing while others go down a one-way road that leads to destruction. There is no easy way out or shortcut back to normalcy. Addictions, bad habits and unwholesome cravings can ravage your soul. The key to recovery is to never give up hope, prevent the thought of quitting fro, entering your mind and fight through the pain until victory is achieved. However, you’ll need an accountability partner to walk with you along the way.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-April 16

Posted on April 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Little Big Town – Tornado (Official Music Video)

Inspiration Behind Tornado:

Little Big Town uses tornado as a metaphor. Rather than build a song around a destructive force of nature, the lyrics illustrates what happens when a woman filled with anger and vengeance leaves her own destruction path on human souls. While the music video makes listeners expect to see a real tornado at any moment, this debris field leaves behind mental and spiritual scars from a disgruntled woman.

Biblical Application:

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many, Hebrews 12:14-15.

Exegesis of Tornado:

Thought you’ll change the weather
Start a little storm, make a little rain
But I’m gonna do one better
Have the sun until you pray

When someone is about to lose their composure, there are obvious signs like a raised voice, a change is emotions and venomous speech. Tornados have their own warning signs in the sky. Karen Fairplay wants to do one better with an odd play on words to end this opening stanza.

I’m a tornado looking for a soul to take
You’re gonna see me coming by the selfish things that you did
I’m gonna leave you guessing have this fun on this gonna hit I’m a tornado, looking for a man to break

Hurt people have a tendency to want to inflict the people who hurt them. This is the payback that is referred to.

Yeah, I’m gonna leave this house, spinning all around
Tossing in the air and playing in the ground
Make sure you’ll never found

Like the wrath from a twister, the angry brewing wants to leave a similar path of destruction.

Thought you’ll take the swing try another girl, try another night
But it’s not pain that brings my force of nature back to life
I’m a tornado, what’s done gotta left by

Sometimes human beings try to play God, seeking to payback the harm done to their soul.

Hey I’m gonna leave this house, spin it all around
Tossing in the air and put it in the ground
I’m gonna leave this house, spin it all around
Tossing in the air and put it in the ground
Make sure you’ll never find, oh yeah

This is what happens when you allow the root of bitterness to consume your soul.

Hey I’m gonna leave this house, spin it all around
Tossing in the air and put it in the ground
Yeah, I’m gonna leave this house, spin it all around
Tossing in the air and put it in the ground
Make sure you’ll never find

The lyrics suggest that she wants to bury her ex-boyfriend, sending a bad message,

The winds are getting stronger and the sky is falling through
You ain’t got much longer till the rage rips off the roof
I’m a tornado and I’m coming after you

When common sense is gone, anger and rage take over.

Final Thoughts:

The older I become; I try to be a peace maker. Yet, in my younger years, I had a short fuse, going off at a moment’s notice. My anger management issue took more than a decade to finally control. When you become open to letting Jesus come into your life, Romans 10:9-11, this transformation is possible, but it takes time.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 28

Posted on March 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING TO? | DIANA ROSS | AUDIO SONG LYRICS

Inspiration Behind Do You Know Where You’re Going to?

Michael Masser and Gerry Goffin wrote Do You Know Where You’re Going To for the 1975 film Mahogany. As the lead actress in Mahogany, Diana sang this theme song for the film. Mahogany is about a young black woman named Tracey Chambers who aspires to become a fashion designer in Chicago. Along this journey, the lyrics to Do You Know Where You’re Going To fit in as Tracey seeks to figure out the right career path to take to fulfill her dreams.

Biblical Application: (a worst-case scenario when you go through life without having a clear vision to follow)

You stumble day and night, and the prophets stumble with you. So I will destroy your mother— 6  My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. “Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children, Hosea 4:5-6.

Exegesis of Do You Know Where You’re Going to?

Do you know where you’re going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?

There will always be naysayers whenever you take a chance in life by seeking to pursue the American dream. This usually occurs via trial and error as you figure out what you like and dislike.

Do you get what you’re hoping for?
When you look behind you there’s no open doors
What are you hoping for?
Do you know?

This journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns. Depending upon your expectations, you may not get what you were hoping for, especially when opportunities begin to run out.

Once we were standing still in time
Chasing the fantasies that filled our minds
You knew I loved you, but my spirit was free
Laughing at the questions that you once asked of me

Chasing after dreams isn’t easy. Some people may be holding you back or may believe that this pursuit is a waste of time.

Do you know where you’re going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?

Sometimes all you need is a sign of hope to keep this dream alive.

Now, looking back at all we’ve passed
We’ve let so many dreams slip through our hands
Why must we wait so long before we see
How sad the answers to those questions can be?

Success takes time, especially if what you’re chasing is a long shoot. Ultimately, how bad you want something will dictate the length of your pursuit.

Do you know where you’re going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?

When should you give up or keep tarrying on is up to you.

Do you know, do you know?
Do you know?

Rejection and failures will determine how long you last or will simply strengthen your resolve.

Final Thoughts:

Fifteen years ago, a colleague convinced me to start writing screenplays. I envisioned that if I poured my heart and soul into this new venture, that by the time that I retired I could do this for fun. Unfortunately, as Hollywood has changed over the past 2 decades, it’s getting harder and harder to break through. Four screenplays later, I’m not sure if it’s worth it. I haven’t given up, but I may simply turn one of my movies into a book to see if that opens any new doors. This is my personal experience of following the words of Do You Know Where You’re Going to.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 26

Posted on March 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Gladys Knight & The Pips – Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me (Audio)

Inspiration Behind Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me:

This song brings up gratitude and the impact that one individual can have on your life. Jim Weatherly was an all-American quarterback before transitioning to song writing. As the writer of Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me, Jim paints a picture of how a special person can completely transform your life. This is the emotional presentation that Gladys Knight makes in Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me.

Biblical Application:

How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes behind your veil are doves.
Your hair is like a flock of goats descending from the hills of Gilead. 2 Your teeth are like a flock of sheep just shorn,
coming up from the washing. Each has its twin; not one of them is alone. 3 Your lips are like a scarlet ribbon; your mouth is lovely. Your temples behind your veil are like the halves of a pomegranate, Song of Solomon 4:1-3.

Exegesis of Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me:

I’ve had my share of life’s ups and downs
But fate’s been kind, the downs have been few
I guess you could say that I’ve been lucky
Well, I guess you could say that it’s all because of you

The lyrics suggest that success in life takes time. However, a combination of fate and luck has led Gladys to this special person.

If anyone should ever write my life story
(For whatever reason) for whatever reason there might be
Ooh, you’ll be there between each line of pain and glory
‘Cause you’re the best thing (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)
That ever happened to me (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)
Ah, you’re the best thing that ever happened to me

This stanza reads like a Christian testimony. While there have been bumpy stretches along the way, a significant other came into her life at just the right time. Subsequently, Gladys realizes that this person is the best thing that has happened to her.

Oh, there have been times when times were hard
But always, somehow, I made it, I made it through
‘Cause for every moment that I’ve spent hurting
There was a moment that I spent, oh, just loving you, yeah

Unlike modern songs with unrealistic lyrics, life will bring you tough times along the journey called life. Through these moments of aches and pain, Gladys never stopped loving this man.

If anyone should ever write my life story
For, for whatever (for whatever reason) for whatever reason there might be
Oh, you’ll be there between each line of pain and glory
‘Cause you’re the best thing (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)
That ever happened to me (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)

This stanza points to appreciation and gratitude for having someone in her life to get Gladys through rocky patches. This leads to a spirit of thankfulness.

Oh, you’re the best thing (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)
That ever happened to me (you’re the best thing that ever happened to me)
I know, you’re the best thing (you’re the best thing)
Oh, that ever happened to me
Yeah,

If couples could simply search for the good qualities in each other, they just might realize that their spouse is the best thing that has ever happened to them in life.

Final Thoughts:

When you reach my age, now closer to 60 than 50, you have time to reflect on your past. Special people have come and gone over the years, but my wife Leanne has stayed by my side through it all. This makes my wife and our children, the best thing that ever happened to me.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 9

Posted on March 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Hold On:

Hold On by Wilson Phillips provides an inside scoop of what was going on behind the scenes of her band. Lead singer Chyanna was battling substance abuse and a difficult relationship. The lyrics of Hold On serves as words of encouragement to hang in there until this tumultuous stage of life ends. The theme of Hold On urges listeners in a similar situation to make a change to avoid falling into a cycle of pain.

Biblical Application:

Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil, 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21.

Exegesis of Hold On:

I know there’s pain (I know there’s pain)
Why do you lock yourself up in these chains? (These chains)
No one can change your life except for you
Don’t ever let anyone step all over you

Pain is a natural aspect of life. Yet how you respond to pain will dictate how quickly you recover. You need to take responsibility for your life and stop playing the victim. If you want to change, stop letting others walk all over you.

Just open your heart and your mind
Mmm
Is it really fair to feel, this way inside?
Whoa-oh-oh

If the human heart is your well spring to life, guard your heart as you open your mind to a new future free from pain. Don’t let the past drag you down.

Someday, somebody’s gonna make you want to
Turn around and say goodbye
Until then, baby, are you going to let ’em
Hold you down and make you cry?
Don’t you know?
Don’t you know, things can change?
Things will go your way
If you hold on for one more day
Can you hold on for one more day?
Things will go your way Hold on for one more day

Change is possible, but your need to develop perseverance to press on. While you are waiting for circumstances in your life to change, hold on for dear life until things start to go your way again.

You could sustain
(Hmm) or are you comfortable with the pain?
You’ve got no one to blame for your unhappiness (no, baby)
You got yourself into your own mess (ooh)

Don’t let pain consume your life. You’ve got to be proactive in breaking free from your current situation. Don’t let these negative patterns continue.

Lettin’ your worries pass you by (lettin’ your worries), baby, (pass you by)
Don’t you think it’s worth your time
To change your mind?
No, no

Doubt and depression are holding Chyanna back. Once her mind believes that change is possible, healing can begin.

Someday, somebody’s gonna make you want to
Turn around and say goodbye
Until then, baby, are you going to let ’em
Hold you down and make you cry?
Don’t you know?
Don’t you know, things can change?
Things will go your way
If you hold on for one more day
Can you hold on for one more day?
Things will go your way (all things will go your way)
Hold on for one more day

Breaking free from self-destructive patterns can be extremely difficult. Yet until you truly want to change how you are living, you’ll continue down this painful road. Some people just need a spark of hope or a positive influence to usher in a season of change.

I know that there is pain
But you hold on for one more day
And you break free from the chains
Yeah, I know that there is pain
But you hold on for one more day and you
Break free, break from the chains

I know you are hurting, but you have to hang in there. Press on.

Someday, somebody’s gonna make you want to
Turn around and say goodbye (say goodbye)
Until then, baby, are you going to let ’em
Hold you down and make you cry?
Don’t you know?
Don’t you know (know), things can change? (No?)
Things will go your way
If you hold on for one more day, yeah
If you hold on
Don’t you know, things can change
Things will go your way
If you hold on for one more day

Wilson is encouraging Chyanna that she will see light at the end of the tunnel. Yet, for now, hang in there just one more day.

Can you hold on?
Can you hold on?
Mmm, can you hold on, baby
Won’t you tell me now
Hold on for one more day
‘Cause it’s gonna go your way
Don’t you know, things can change
Things will go your way
If you hold on for one more day, yeah
Can’t you change it this time
Make up your mind
Hold on
Hold on

This final chorus is like a prayer for a good friend. A glimpse of hope is better than the reality of pain and suffering.

Final Thoughts:

As a former youth pastor, teenagers can place themselves into difficult situations similar to Chyanna. All I could do was be an agent for change, providing words of hope. In the end, human beings have to want to change before hope has the opportunity to become a reality.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 8

Posted on March 8, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind What About Love?

What About Love was conceived out of a longing for an emotional connection and desire for unreciprocated love. The lyrics were spawn from band members who felt unappreciated by their former partners. The concept of love has become merely a word in many relationships, void of genuine acts of romance. Subsequently, once in a relationship, these women band members wanted to know what happened to love, where did it go?

Biblical Application:

 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh[a]; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b] 15 If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other, Galatians 5:13-15.

Exegesis of What About Love:

I’ve been lonely, I’ve been waitin’ for you
I’m pretending and that’s all I can do
The love I’m sendin’
Ain’t makin’ it through to your heart

This woman doesn’t like being lonely. When she finds someone, she is trying to get his attention. Yet, despite her attempts at affection, he either doesn’t notice or have mutual feelings.

You’ve been hidin’, never lettin’ it show
Always tryin’ to keep it under control
You got it down and you’re well on your way to the top
But there’s somethin’ that you forgot

Some guys try to hide their feelings in an attempt to remain cool. Instead, the man she has her eye on is focused on their career, seeking to reach new heights. However, he is missing out on love.

What about love?
Don’t you want someone to care about you?
And what about love?
Don’t let it slip away

The chorus is an open-ended question. God designed human beings to leave their parents and start their own family. This is what this woman asks, “don’t you want to share your life with someone you love?

What about love?
I only want to share it with you
You might need it someday

This opens the door to an intimate encounter. You are the one who I want to share my life with.

I can’t tell you what you’re feelin’ inside
And I can’t sell you what you don’t want to buy
Something’s missing, you got to look back on your life
You know something here just ain’t right

She is trying to break through to uncover what he is feeling. She refuses to give up, urging this man to consider what he is missing.

What about love?
Don’t you want someone to care about you?
What about love?
Don’t let it slip away
What about love?
I only want to share it with you

This chorus makes a convincing argument about love and the need for this to be shared.

What about love?
Don’t you want someone to care about you?
What about love?
Don’t let it slip away

Let me know. I know you have feelings of love. What are you afraid of? Act now or love will slip away.

But what about love?
I only want to share it with you
Oh no
Ohh ohh, oh what about love?

This woman is fighting to express her love, eager to convince the person she cares about.

Yeah
Ooh ooh hoo
What about love?
Love, love, love
What about, what about love?
Ooh hoo hoo hoo

Love is a driving force, especially when you meet the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.

Final Thoughts:

One of the aspects not addressed in what about love is timing. Both individuals aren’t always ready for love. When the timing is off, love is not manifested. However, when the time is right, love between 2 people is conceived. This is the key element of love, where desire and timing co-exist.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-March 4

Posted on March 4, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Wasting Away:

The lyrics to Wasting Away would have fit into making New Year Resolutions, but this song addresses how people put off following their dreams. Instead of taking a chance to risk failure, fear is preventing action causing individuals to become idle. Tonight Alive attempts to inspire listeners to press beyond their emotional struggles to make their dreams comes true. This journey begins by setting daily goals that will lead an individual toward the desires on their heart.

Biblical Application:

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will, Romans 12:1-2.

Exegesis of Wasting Away:

And so the sky becomes a dream
I never dreamt, because I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away

The lyrics begin with a moment of reflection. This quickly vanishes as the fast pace of life is preventing time to dream. But the reality of this situation is the act of procrastinating.

Don’t tell me it’s too hard
You were never there from the start
I’m not about to give this up
Giving up was never enough, no

Excuses aren’t productive. You can’t say it’s too hard as you just got here. I’m not listening to your negativity. Giving up my dreams was never an option.

And so the sky becomes a dream
I never dreamt, because I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away
And so the sky, it watched my dreams
Fall to pieces right in front of me
‘Cause I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away

This extended chorus urges listeners to stop standing around and start following your dreams.

And I never wished for anything more
Than to find what I’ve been looking for
And I swore to myself, I wouldn’t lie to myself
How could I let this happen?
So I pull myself aside
Take the time you tell myself it’s alright
‘Cause you weren’t there to dry my eyes

Dallas is talking about a friend, family member or partner who hasn’t been with her as she has tried to follow her dreams.

And so the sky becomes a dream
I never dreamt, because I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away
And so the sky, it watched my dreams
Fall to pieces right in front of me
‘Cause I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away

Don’t just watch as your dreams are falling apart. Do something now, get involved and avoid useless excuses.

I’m wasting, wasting away
I’m wasting, I’m wasting away

Talking about wasting time isn’t helping your situation.

And so the sky becomes a dream
I never dreamt, because I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away

Slow down, set goals and start facing your fear of failure.

And so the sky becomes a dream
I never dreamt, because I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away
And so the sky it watched my dreams
Fall to pieces right in front of me
‘Cause I’m just too busy
Waiting for nothing and wasting away
Wasting, wasting away, away

Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again yet expecting a different result. Wasting away in idleness isn’t going to make your dreams come true. Stop feeling sorry for yourself and start taking action.

Final Thoughts:

I am a big believer in following your dreams. I’ve written 4 screen plays and have an outline for a fifth. Meanwhile, I am creating an outline to turn one of these movies into a book. While I may not find a producer or publisher in my lifetime, at least I can say I accomplished these works of art. Don’t be an observer; be an active participate.

by Jay Mankus

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