Tag Archives: short-story

The Message Behind the Music-August 2

Posted on August 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Jason Isbell, The 400 Unit – Alabama Pines

Inspiration Behind Alabama Pines:

Jason writes about the unique native pine species that define Alabama’s natural landscape and cultural identity. While Alabama is home to several specifies, the Longleaf Pine is the state tree. The symbolism behind the Alabama Pines is that despite the warm climate and various soil types, these trees are enduring and resilient. From Jason’s perspective, if these trees can survive over the years, so can I.

Biblical Application:

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers, Psalm 1:1-3.

Exegesis of Alabama Pines:

[Verse 1]
Well, I moved into this room
If you could call it that, a week ago
I never do what I’m supposed to do
Hardly even know my name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Sounds like Jason is referring to a room in his house that he now calls his office. The songs which once naturally flowed out of his mind and onto a paper have stopped. This lack of progress has impacted his career.

[Verse 2]
I can’t get to sleep at night
The parking lot’s so loud and bright
The A/C hasn’t worked in twenty years
Probably never made a single person cold
But I can’t say the same for me, I’ve done it many times

Jason writes about the barriers and obstacles in his life. While he can’t ever get cold enough, he’s made plenty of people cold and unwelcomed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This is why Jason feels the need to return home to Alabama.

[Verse 3]
You can’t drive through Talladega
On a weekend in October
Just head up north to Jacksonville, cut around and over
Watch your speed in Boiling Springs
They ain’t got a thing to do, they’ll get you every time

Jason details his life experiences of living in Alabama, especially where not to speed.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

Alabama holds a special place in Jason’s heart, especially the distinct pines back home.

[Verse 4]
If we pass through on a Sunday
Better make a stop at Wayne’s
It’s the only open liquor store north
And I can’t stand the pain
Of being by myself without a little help on a Sunday afternoon

Jason has turned to alcohol to numb his pain of being alone without any help.

[Verse 5]
Well, I needed that damn woman like a dream needs gasoline
And I tried to be some ancient kind of man
One that’s never seen the beauty in the world
But I tried to chase it down
Tried to make the whole thing mine

Jason hasn’t had much success finding the right woman. Jason has even changed who he is to make things work.

[Chorus]
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines
Somebody take me home
Through those Alabama pines

This rough stretch in life makes Jason want to return home.

[Verse 6]
I’ve been stuck here in this town
If you could call it that, a year or two
I never do what I’m supposed to do
I don’t even need a name anymore
When no one calls it out, it kinda vanishes away

Jason’s career and life is quickly disappearing as the fame he once enjoyed as a country singer has vanished.

[Outro]
No one gives a damn about the things I give a damn about
The liberties that we can’t do without
Seem to disappear like ghosts in the air
When we don’t even care, it truly vanishes away

Society has grown cold, not caring about issues Jason is passionate about. As freedom and liberties slowly disappear, most Americans are distracted, becoming ghosts stuck in their own world. When people stop caring, life falls apart.

Final Thoughts:

There are some sad realities to Jason’s song. People have become so self-absorbed that they are unable to notice what is going on in this country and throughout the world. If you want to endure and be resilient, you have to become deeply rooted and grounded in faith, Colossians 2:6-7, like Alabama Pines.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-August 1: A Season of Travel

Posted on August 1, 2026 by expressyourself4him

John Parr – St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion) (Official Music Video)

Monthly Theme:

While some states start school in August, this is the final month of summer. The last time families can spend time together before another school year is set in motion. Travel may take you to visit relatives, return home to reconnect with old friends or make new memories in your favorite vacation destination. This season of travel is your last shot at rejuvenating a tired and weary soul, boosting your moral to finish 2026 off strong. Subsequently, August will feature songs with places in the title.

Inspiration Behind St. Elmo’s Fire:

 John Parr co-wrote Man in Motion with producer David Foster. While the initial inspiration came from the 1985 film St. Elmo’s Fire, the man in the lyrics is Canadian athlete Rick Hansen. After a spinal cord injury left Hansen paralyzed from the waist down, Rick began his own tour, a 26‑month wheelchair journey across 34 countries to raise awareness and funds for this cause. Subsequently, part of this song is about the movie and the other is about Rick’s recovery.

Biblical Application:

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:6.

Exegesis of St. Elmo’s Fire:

Growin’ up, you don’t see the writin’ on the wall
Passin’ by, movin’ straight ahead, you knew it all
But maybe sometime if you feel the pain
You’ll find you’re all alone, everythin’ has changed

“St. Elmo’s Fire” follows seven recent college graduates navigating their way through life. These seven individuals confront realities of post-college such as career pressures, relationships and maturity issues. These growing pains result in loneliness, pain and uncertainty.

Play the game, you know you can’t quit until it’s won
Soldier on, only you can do what must be done
You know in some way you’re a lot like me
You’re just a prisoner and you’re tryna break free

While this stanza could apply to the movie, the game suggests this is about Rick Hansen and his road to recovery. Getting used to life in a wheelchair is like a soldier coming back from war with permanent injuries. Rick’s wheelchair tour likely served as a way to help the paralyzed see that they weren’t a prisoner to a wheelchair..

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

A duel purpose stanza that touches on Rick’s journey to one day walk again as well as the characters within the movie as they mature from students to adults.

Burnin’ up, don’t know just how far that I can go (just how far I go)
Soon be home, only just a few miles down the road
I can make it, I know I can
You broke the boy in me but you won’t break the man

The lyrics suggest this is referring to Rick, broken after his life altering injury. Yet Rick’s wheelchair tour pushed his physical limits, helping him realize that living in a wheelchair for the rest of his life won’t break him.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher

An introduction to the chorus relates to the characters in St. Elmo’s Fire as they reach for their dreams in life.

Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Pair of wheels could refer to a new car, but is focused on Rick’s wheelchair and how he now rolls on with life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me, burnin’ in me

St. Elmo’s is a bar where these college friends try to catch up on life. After meeting together, some conversations ignite fire and passion to keep pursuing specific goals in life.

Just once in his life a man has his time
And my time is now, I’m comin’ alive

A motivational stanza to come alive by seizing the moment.

I can hear the music playin’, I can see the banners fly
Feel like a man again, I’ll hold my head high
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Rejuvenated spirits after a night out at the bar. The final portion of this chorus speaks to Rick Hansen’s recovering from his spinal cord injury, giving hope to those who feel their life is over after not being able to walk.

I can see a new horizon underneath the blazin’ sky
I’ll be where the eagle’s flyin’ higher and higher
Gonna be your man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels
Take me where my future’s lyin’, St. Elmo’s fire

Repeating the chorus as if to reignite hope into those on the verge of giving up on life.

I can climb the highest mountain, cross the wildest sea
I can feel St. Elmo’s fire burnin’ in me
Burnin’, burnin’ in me, I can feel it burnin’
Ooh, burnin’ inside of me

Life isn;t over until you quit. If you keep fighting, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

Final Thoughts:

I was in high school when I watched St. Elmo’s Fire. I recall the ending being disappointing, America’s version of Rick Hansen was Chucky Mullins, a defensive back for Ole Miss football. After being paralyzed like Rick, Chucky became a motivational speaker until his death. I once served as a Chaplin, giving a pregame speech at a University of Delaware football game. I spoke about Chucky is his new life motto after being bound to a wheelchair. “Don’t quit! Don’t ever quit! And never give it! I adopted this in my final years as an athlete fighting back after doctors told me my athletic career was over. This is the fire that still drives me today.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-July 29

Posted on July 29, 2026 by expressyourself4him

George Michael – Freedom! ’90 (Official Video)

Inspiration Behind Freedom:

Freedom was conceived from George Michael’s deep personal reckoning with fame, identity, and creative control. After the success of Faith in 1987, Michael’s felt trapped by the expectations of having to produce another hit song. Subsequently, Freedom served as a confession and a declaration, reaching a point in his life where he could create content, perform and just be himself.

Biblical Application:

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35 Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed, John 8:34-35.

Exegesis of Freedom:

I won’t let you down
I will not give you up
Gotta have some faith in the sound
It’s the one good thing that I’ve got
I won’t let you down
So please don’t give me up
Because I would really, really love to stick around
Oh, yeah

George is feeling pressure to perform. Previous success has instilled faith within George that he won’t let his agent, producer and record company down. George isn’t ready to retire, wanting to keep his singing career going.

Heaven knows I was just a young boy
Didn’t know what I wanted to be (Didn’t know what I wanted to be)
I was every little hungry schoolgirl’s pride and joy
And I guess it was enough for me (And I guess it was enough for me)

Looking back to his past to see where he came from. Being a heartthrob was good enough for George.

To win the race, a prettier face
Brand new clothes and a big fat place
On your rock and roll TV (Rock and roll TV)
But today the way I play the game is not the same, no way
Think I’m gonna get me some happy

As you get older, it’s harder to maintain your image. George has become wiser with age, content with who he is now.

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I told you so)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone else I’ve got to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Take back your singing in the rain)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

This is the confessional part of the lyrics. George reached a point in his life where he stopped carrying about his image. He is trying to explain that there is more to a person than the clothes you wear.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

Image isn’t what you think it is. While George was and may still be viewed as a sex symbol, he is trying to explain that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You’ve got to give what you take (It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You’ve got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

The opening chorus is another confession. Meanwhile, this also reads like a self-help pep talk. Freedom is the spark which will enable George to maintain his stardom.

Heaven knows we sure had some fun, boy
What a kick just a buddy and me (What a kick just a buddy and me)
We had every big-shot goodtime band on the run, boy
We were living in a fantasy (We were living in a fantasy)

George looks back at his start as the lead singer of Wham. Looking back, this was like living a dream.

We won the race, got out of the place
Went back home, got a brand new face for the boys on MTV (Boys on MTV)
But today the way I play the game has got to change, oh yeah
Now I’m gonna get myself happy

George was successful with Wham, but the time came for George to leave, starting his solo career. While the days on MTV were great, Goerge does things different now, content with his new life outside of a band,

I think there’s something you should know
(I think it’s time I stopped the show)
There’s something deep inside of me
(There’s someone I forgot to be)
Take back your picture in a frame
(Don’t think that I’ll I be back again)
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

When everyone told George about his great looks and image, it appears that he didn’t have a friend who was real with him, demonstrating tough love. This led to an identity crisis trying to figure out the man behind his clothes.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you and you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is sorting things out, trying to figure out the truth behind the lies he was told as an artist.

Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (I will not give you up)
Freedom (Gotta have some faith in the sound)
You got to give what you take
(It’s the one good thing that I’ve got)
Freedom (I won’t let you down)
Freedom (So please don’t give me up)
Freedom (‘Cause I would really)
You got to give what you take (really love to stick around)

Freedom came as George began to figure out who he is and what’s really important in life.

Well, it looks like the road to heaven
But it feels like the road to hell
When I knew which side my bread was buttered
I took the knife as well
Posing for another picture
Everybody’s got to sell
But when you shake your ass
They notice fast
And some mistakes were build to last

George is looking for direction in life, what to do in the future. However, he still hasn’t figured things out. Poor decisions in the past, using his body as a sex symbol, has led to regret. Yet, sex sold his music for years.

(That’s what you get)
That’s what you get
(That’s what you get)
I say that’s what you get
(I say that’s what you get for changing your mind)
That’s what you get for changing your mind
(That’s what you get)
(That’s what you get) And after all this time
I just hope you understand
Sometimes the clothes do not make the man

A stanza about regret, possibly referring to his song I Want Your Sex. George is having image problems, trying to explain to his fans that he is not the man behind his former image.

All we have to do now
Is take these lies and make them true somehow
All we have to see
Is that I don’t belong to you
And you don’t belong to me, yeah yeah

George is trying to sort things out to improve his self-esteem.

Freedom (Oh)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You’ve gotta give for what you take
Freedom (I’ll hold on to my)
Freedom
(My) Freedom
You got to give what, to give what, give what you take
Yeah!
You got to give what, give to what, to give

Freedom comes from being true to yourself and who you are.

May not be what you want from me
Just the way it’s got to be
Lose the face now
I’ve got to live

George is searching for the type of person that he has to be moving forward in life.

Final Thoughts:

I loved Wham when I was in high school. However, when George Michael began his solo career, he started to push the envelope through his dance moves and lyrics. George was like the Madonna of male artists, not going over the top in his music videos like Madonna. The lyrics of Freedom give me hope that George may be maturing and transforming his life as he grows old.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-July 28

Posted on July 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Some Gave All-Billy Ray Cyrus Lyrics

Inspiration Behind Some Gave All:

Some Gave All ended up fulfilling two purposes: a commercial breakthrough and a heartfelt tribute to military service. Billy Ray Cyrus and his first wife, Cindy Smith, wrote Some Gave All in 1991. The idea came during a conversation with a Vietnam veteran. Billy and Cindy were both moved to create a song that honored the sacrifices of those who served.

Biblical Application:

When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many,” Mark 10:41-45.

Exegesis of Some Gave All:

I knew a man, called him Sandy Kane
Few folks even knew his name
But a hero, yes, was he
Left a boy, came back a man
Still, many just don’t understand
About the reasons we are free

The Vietnam vet that Billy and Cindy met. So many Vietnam veterans went unrecognized. Sandy left as a teenager and returned to America as a man, full of deep wounds to his soul.

I can’t forget the look in his eyes
Or the tears he cried
As he said these words to me

These stories are heart breaking, making others cry. Sandy poured out his heart to Billy and Cindy.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

While not everyone died in action, many returned scarred for life. However, when you consider the freedom within America, remember that some gave all.

Now Sandy Kane is no longer here
But his words are, oh, so clear
As they echo throughout our land
For all his friends who gave us all

Sandy passed away before this song was finished. Yet the words spoken to Billy and Cindy remain loud and clear. This song is for the service men and women who gave us all they had.

Who stood the ground and took the fall
To help their fellow man

These individuals died for freedom that America still possesses.

Love your country and live with pride
And don’t forget those who died
America, can’t you see?

A call for patriotism, remembering the sacrifices that were made in the past.

All gave some, and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white, and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

Another chorus with images of laying your life down, standing up for the American flag and what it represents. Don’t take your liberties for granted as someone gave their life for freedom.

And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Yes, recall
Some gave all
Some gave all

Sandy wanted to be remembered instead of heckled like other Vietnam vets. Don’t forget about my friends who gave up their lives for freedom.

Final Thoughts:

One of my former high school teammates, Tom Carr, recently passed away. I had lunch with Tom before moving to South Carolina. The Gulf War really messed him up, suffering from PTSD. While Tom made it back home after fulfilling his years of service, he was never the same. May Some Gave All remind you of all the Tom Carr’s in your life.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-July 20

Posted on July 20, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Dixie Chicks – Wide Open Spaces (Lyrics)

Inspiration Behind Wide Open Spaces:

 Susan Gibson was studying forestry at the University of Montana when she wrote Wide Open Spaces. Frequent family trips from Amarillo, Texas to Missoula, Montana conceived the concept of Wide Open Spaces.  After jotting down lyrics in a notebook over the years, Susan’s mom sent this journal to her in college as part of a care package. Upon glancing over the words inside, Wide Open Spaces was spawn.

Biblical Application:

The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites, Exodus 3:7-8.

Exegesis of Wide Open Spaces:

Who doesn’t know what I’m talking about?
Who’s never left home? Who’s never struck out?
To find a dream and a life of their own
A place in the clouds, a foundation of stone

A song about traveling, watching the landscape as her parents’ drive. These trips led Susan to attend college in Montana. She followed her dream, searching for a solid foundation.

Many precede and many will follow
A young girl’s dreams no longer hollow
It takes the shape of a place out West
But what it holds for her, she hasn’t yet guessed

Susan is trying to make something out of her life as her dreams take shape in Montana. Still waiting for confirmation.

She needs wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes
She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes

This is what Susan believes she needs to be successful. New faces with high stakes to aim for.

She traveled this road as a child
Wide-eyed and grinning, she never tired
But now she won’t be coming back with the rest
If these are life’s lessons, she’ll take this test

Susan is leaving home in Texas to follow her dream in Montana. Various life lessons has led her down this path.

She needs wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes

Perhaps a reference to forestry, clear cutting areas so that new trees can be planted.

She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes
She knows the high stakes

Susan enjoys meeting new people. She also realizes that responsibilities that come with her dream.

And as her folks drive away, her dad yells, “Check the oil!”
Mom stares out the window and says, “I’m leavin’ my girl”
She said, “It didn’t seem like that long ago”
When she stood there and let her own folks know

A reference to dropping their girl off at college or moving away for good after graduating.

She needed wide open spaces
Room to make her big mistakes
She needs new faces
She knows the high stakes

The chorus repeats itself, explaining the environment Susan is searching for.

She knows the highest stakes
She knows the highest stakes (wide open spaces)
She knows the highest stakes
She knows the highest stakes (wide open spaces)

The stakes are high as Susan risks failure to achieve her dream in life.

Final Thoughts:

I took a winter semester off in college to travel the country, staying with 2 close friends from high school. I was able to see what life had to offer before I graduated from college. I went skiing out west and hung out in Dallas, providing an idea of where I wanted to live after college. As someone who loves to travel, I can’t get enough of wide open spaces driving along the interstate. Nature can be inspirational like it was for Susan.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-July 15

Posted on July 15, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Chuck Berry Back In The USA

Inspiration Behind Back in the USA:

Chuck Berry was on tour in Australia when he returned to the United States. While landing in America, Chuck developed a deep appreciation for being back home. The cities mentioned in Back in the USA is where Chuck performed. This connection with certain places made Berry feel like he was back home in his native country. Berry’s song served as the inspiration for the Beatles song Back in the USSR.

Biblical Application:

On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi[e] of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates— 19 the land of the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, 20 Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, 21 Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites and Jebusites,” Genesis 15:18-21.

Exegesis of Back in the USA:

Uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah
Oh, yeah, oh, yeah

A fun way to express “it’s great to be back home.”

Oh, well, oh, well, I feel so good today (uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
We just touched ground on an international runway (uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
Jet propelled back home, from overseas to the U.S.A. (oh, yeah, oh, yeah)

Chuck is excited to be back in America. Touching down on the West Coast never felt so good after the long flight from Australia.

New York, Los Angeles, oh, how I yearned for you (uh-huh-huh, mm-huh)
Detroit, Chicago, Chattanooga, Baton Rouge (uh-huh-huh, mm-huh)
Let alone just to be at my home back in ol’ St. Lou’ (mm-huh, mm-huh)

Chuck missed the great cities where he had performed in the past. After rattling off 6 cities that immediately came to his mind, Chuck is most excited about being back in his hometown of St. Louis.

Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

More of a guitar-based chorus to express his joy of finally being home again.

Did I miss the skyscrapers, did I miss the long freeway? (Uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
From the coast of California to the shores of Delaware Bay (uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
You can bet your life I did, till I got back in the U.S.A. (oh, yeah, oh, yeah)

Berry even appears to miss crowded cities and traffic. From California to the Delaware Bay. suggesting that Chuck often took the Ferry from Delaware to the Jersey shore to save time. These are the emotions and thoughts that immediately came to Chuck’s mind.

Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Uh-huh-huh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Another chorus where Chuck has fun.

Lookin’ hard for a drive-in, searching for a corner café (uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
Where hamburgers sizzle on an open grill night and day (uh-huh-huh, oh, yeah)
Yeah, and the juke-box jumping with records like in the U.S.A. (oh, yeah, oh, yeah)

Places that Chuck missed the most when he was in Australia. Itching for a fresh hamburger off the grill, listening to a jukebox as he enjoys his meal.

Well, I’m so glad I’m livin’ in the U.S.A. (uh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
Yes, I’m so glad I’m livin’ in the U.S.A. (uh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
Anything you want, they got right here in the U.S.A. (mm-huh, mm-huh)

Chuck has a new appreciation for America. Glad, thankful and not wanting to live anywhere else.

I’m so glad I’m livin’ in the U.S.A. (mm-huh, mm-huh)
Yes, I’m so glad I’m livin’ in the U.S.A. (mm-huh, mm-huh)

A proud citizen of the USA.

Final Thoughts:

I spent the last few days of my summer vacation in Canada. While each country has its own unique culture and places, returning this past week made me happy to return to the United States. Living in a small town just east of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I missed living in a town without traffic lights. Meanwhile, I couldn’t wait to hang out at my favorite establishments and pick up my favorite foods at the local grocery store. These are just a few of the things Americans take for granted while living in the USA.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-July 14

Posted on July 14, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Johnny Cash – Ragged Old Flag (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Ragged Old Flag:

The lyrics to Ragged Old Flag were conceived during the Vietnam War when political tensions reached a peak due to President Nixon’s Watergate scandal. After supporting Nixon, Johnny Cash reflected upon how this war and presidency was tearing America apart. Subsequently, Cash used Ragged Old Flag as a history lesson with the hope of reigniting faith in the country and flag that he loved. This song reads like a story about past battles and wars.

Biblical Application:

The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.” Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! – Acts 5:27-29.

Exegesis of Ragged Old Flag:

I walked through a county courthouse square
On a park bench, an old man was sittin’ there.
I said, “Your old court house is kinda run down,
He said, “Naw, it’ll do for our little town”.
I said, “Your old flag pole is leaned a little bit,
And that’s a ragged old flag you got hangin’ on it”.
He said, “Have a seat”, and I sat down,
“Is this the first time you’ve been to our little town”
I said, “I think it is”
He said “I don’t like to brag, but we’re kinda proud of that ragged old flag”

While on vacation Johnny notices a local sitting on a park bench. After making an initial observation, the local explains that old isn’t necessarily run down. Johnny makes another comment about an old flag hanging from a leaning pole. This local asks Johnny to sit down, wanting to explain the history about this town and flag.

You see, we got a little hole in that flag there
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
And It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it
Writing “Say Can You See”
It got a bad rip in New Orleans, with Packingham & Jackson
Tugging at it’s seams.
And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag,
But she waved on though.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville,
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that ragged old flag

This man turns into a historian, using past events to reveal how this ragged old flag got in this current condition. From the Revolutionary to Civil War, this flag has seen significant battles waged. When you add the windy conditions, this is the how this flag has become ragged.

On Flanders Field in World War I
She got a big hole from a Bertha Gun
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp, and low, a time or two
She was in Korea, Vietnam, she went where she was sent
By her Uncle Sam
She waved from our ships upon the briny foam
And now they’ve about quit wavin’ back here at home
In her own good land here She’s been abused
She’s been burned, dishonored, denied an’ refused
And the government for which she stands
Has scandalized throughout out the land
And she’s getting thread bare, and she’s wearin’ thin
But she’s in good shape, for the shape she’s in
Cause she’s been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more

The American flag is used as a background for World War I and II. From Korea to Vietnam, American soldiers have been sent to defend and support freedom. This serves as an introduction to modern times as people have lost faith in the leaders of this country. The Ragged Old Flag is symbolic of American values which have been challenged and tested over the last 200 years when this was written. The old man believes that America still has a bright future.

So we raise her up every morning
And we take her down every night,
We don’t let her touch the ground,
And we fold her up right.
On a second thought
I do like to brag
‘Cause I’m mighty proud of that ragged old flag

This is why this old local flag is raised every morning to remind citizens of what we’ve been through to obtain freedom. Meanwhile, the locals take her down every evening and don’t let her touch the ground, folding this flag up with respect, just as she deserves. This is what has led this town to be become proud of their Ragged Old Flag.

Final Thoughts:

I was a Boy Scout until high school when sports became a bigger priority in my life. Yet, I learned to respect the American flag as a scout. At ballgames I learned to rise for the National Anthem and place my hand over my chest. Although I have gone through the motions many times when I sing the Star-Spangled Banner, certain moments I was stuck with the same appreciation as the local man in this song. Instead of airing your grievances, it’s time to start thanking God for being born and or living in the greatest country in the world.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-June 27

Posted on June 27, 2026 by expressyourself4him

The Isley Brothers – Shout, Pts. 1 & 2 (Official Audio)

Inspiration Behind Shout:

The Isley Brothers version of Shout was a spontaneous, audience‑driven moment during a live performance. This improv in 1959 has become part of most must play lists at dances, proms and weddings. The band was closing a soul revue at the Uptown Theater in Philadelphia when lead singer Ronald Isley noticed the audience was standing and cheering. Similar to a band playing one more unexpected song at a concert, Ronald added an extended version of Shout which is now the original version.

Biblical Application:

Shout for joy to God, all the earth! 2  Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious. 3 Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you, Psalm 66:1-3.

Exegesis of Shout:

We-eee-eeel
You know you make me wanna (Shout!)
Kick my heels up and (Shout!)
Throw my hands up and (Shout!)
Throw my head back and (Shout!)
Come on now (Shout!)

Bringing the energy in the opening stanza to excite the original live audience in Philadelphia.


Don’t forget to say you will
Don’t forget to say, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(Say you will)
Say it right now bab-ay
(Say you will)
Come on, come on
(Say you will)
Say it, will-a you-ooooo!
(Say you will)
You got it, now!

I live band tends to bring more energy to a dance floor than a DJ.


(Say) say that you love me
(Say) say that you need me
(Say) say that you want me
(Say) you wanna please me
(Say) come on now
(Say) come on now
(Say) come on now
(Say) come on now
(Say) I still remember

A couple on the dance floor seeking to reinforce their commitment and love to one another.


(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop-wop-wop-wop)
When you used to be nine years old
(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop-wop-wop-wop)
Yeah-yeah!
I was a fool for you, from the bottom of my soul, yeah!
(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop-wop-wop-wop)
Now that you’ve grown, up
(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop-wop-wop-wop)
Enough to know, yeah yeah
(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop-wop-wop-wop)
You wanna leave me, you wanna, let me go
(Shooby-doo-wop-do-wop)

Reunited on the dance floor after their break up, there is discussion about how and why this ended.

I want you to know
I said I want you to know right now, yeah!
You been good to me baby
Better than I been to myself, hey! hey!
An if you ever leave me
I don’t want nobody else, hey! hey!
I said I want you to know-ho-ho-hey!
I said I want you to know right now, hey! hey!

A chance at redemption and reconciliation.

You know you make me wanna
(Shout-wooo) hey-yeah
(Shout-wooo) yeah-yeah-yeah
(Shout-wooo) aaaalll-right
(Shout-wooo) aaaalll-right
(Shout-wooo) come on now!
(Shout) come on now!
(Shout) yeah, yeah, yeah
(Shout) yeah, yeah, yeah (good sound)
(Shout) yeah, yeah, yeah (good sound)
(Shout) yeah, yeah, yeah (good sound)
(Shout) all-alright (good sound)
(Shout) it’s all-alright (good sound)
(Shout) all-alright (good sound)
(Shout) all-alright (aah)

He is trying to convince his ex that she still has feelings for him.

Now wai-a-ait a minute!
I feel alright!
(Yeah-Yeah, Yeah-Yeah!)
(oooooow)
Now that I got my woman
I feel alright!
(Yeah-Yeah, Yeah-Yeah, Yeah-Yeah)
Every time I think about you
You been so good to me
You know you make me wanna

It’s hard to keep track, but they are back together now.


(Shout-wooo) lift my heels up and
(Shout-wooo) throw my head back and
(Shout-wooo) kick my heels up and
(Shout-wooo) come on now
(Shout-wooo) take it easy
(Shout-wooo) take it easy
(Shout-wooo) take it easy (higher)
(Shout) a little bit softer now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now
(Shout) a little bit softer now

The improv portion of Shout first added in Philadelphia. A way to get fan participation that makes this so much fun.

(Shout) a little bit louder now
(Shout) a little bit louder now
(Shout) a little bit louder now (ooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now
(Shout) a little bit louder now
(Shout) a little bit louder now

The lyrics are more of a way to get the audience involved.

(Shout) a little bit louder now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now (wooo)
(Shout) a little bit louder now
(Shout)
Hey-Hey-A-Hey
(Hey-Hey-A-Hey)
Hey-A-Hey-A
(Hey-A-Hey-A)
Hey-A-Hey-A)
(Hey-A-Hey-A)
Hey-A-A-Hey)
(Hey-A-A-Hey)

Leading a crescendo to ignite the audience.

Jump now
Jump up and shout now (wooo)
Jump up and shout now (wooo)
Jump up and shout now (wooo)
Jump up and shout now (wooo)
Jump up and shout now (wooo)

Reving up the audience dancing.


Everybody shout now
Everybody shout now
Everybody, shout, shout
Shout, shout, shout
Shout, shout, shou-out
Shout, shout, shou-out
Shout, shout, shout, shout (oh-whoa-yeah)
Shout, shout, shout, shout (oh yeah)
Shout, shout, shout, shout
Everybody shout now (ooo)

Igniting those dancing into a frenzy.

Final Thoughts:

Due to the live audience, the lyrics don’t mean us much as a typical song. Rather, the Isley Brothers are focused on getting everyone on the dance floor excited. The words in italics are used to ignite the audience into a frenzy. This song is designed to set the tone on the dance floor and accomplishes this every time I’ve heard this at a club. Over 65 years later, Shout remains a great song to dance and listen to.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-June 16

Posted on June 16, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Men At Work – Down Under (Official HD Video)

Inspiration Behind Down Under:

 Colin Hay and Ron Strykert started writing Down Under in 1980, finishing this a year later. What began as an attempt to promote Australia to the world, ended in a loss of country spirit due to overdevelopment and exploitation of their beloved land. These lyrics highlight Colin’s travel abroad, including Brussels. Men at Work’s upbeat, reggae-infused anthem celebrates Australian identity, but takes a swipe at globalization and cultural preservation.

Biblical Application:

For there are many rebellious people, full of meaningless talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision group. 11 They must be silenced, because they are disrupting whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach—and that for the sake of dishonest gain. 12 One of Crete’s own prophets has said it: “Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.”[c] 13 This saying is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, so that they will be sound in the faith, Titus 1:10-13.

Exegesis of Down Under:

Traveling in a fried-out Kombi
On a hippie trail, head full of zombie
I met a strange lady, she made me nervous
She took me in and gave me breakfast
And she said

Colin provides a vivid description of his travels abroad. He either tries to reveal who he met or embellishes. Despite the backwardness, she was hospitable.

“Do you come from a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder?
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover”

The chorus elevate woman of Australia and take a swipe at men. The thunder could be a storm or a herd of animals coming quickly in your direction.

Buying bread from a man in Brussels
He was six-foot-four and full of muscle
I said, “Do you speak-a my language?”
He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich
And he said

Colin reveals a specific story about trying to overcome the language barrier, getting more than he asked for.

“I come from a land down under
Where beer does flow and men chunder
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover, yeah”

A brief background of Australia.

Lying in a den in Bombay
With a slack jaw and not much to say
I said to the man, “Are you trying to tempt me?
Because I come from the land of plenty”
And he said

Another odd encounter, seems slightly embellished.

Oh, do you come from a land down under? (Ooh, yeah-yeah)
Where women glow and men plunder?
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder?
You better run, you better take cover, ’cause we are

Every where Colin went, he tried to describe what it is like in Australia.

Living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder (yeah)
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? (Thunder)
You better-better run, you better take cover

The first repeat chorus, back-to-back, suggesting the end is near.

Living in a land down under
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? Ooh, yeah
You better run, you better take cover

Winding down, without a new stanza in sight.

(We are) living in a land down under (ooh, yeah)
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder? (Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder?)
You better run, you better take cover

The we point to Colin and Ron, with most of the chorus left unchanged except for the second warning of thunder.

Living in a land down under (living in a land down under)
Where women glow and men plunder
Can’t you, can’t you hear the thunder?

This is Men at Work’s brief glimpse of Australia.

Final Thoughts:

Men at Work arrived in America when I was in Junior High. Something about their unique sound made me a fan early on. I bought their first 2 albums, playing them almost every night before going to sleep. While my favorite songs are on the Blue for You album, 1983, Down Under has that classic summer sound with lyrics full of travel.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Message Behind the Music-June 3

Posted on June 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Jackson Browne- Somebody’s Baby

Inspiration Behind Somebody’s Baby:

Jackson Browne’s 1982 hit was a collaboration between Danny Kortchmar who wrote the music and the producers of the movie Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Browne teamed up with Cameron Crowe to produce Somebody’s Baby for this film’s soundtrack. Browne’s vision for Somebody’s Baby was to create an unabashed pop song which fit perfectly into one of the scenes of Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

Biblical Application:

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight, 1 Peter 3:3-4.

Exegesis of Somebody’s Baby:

Well, just – a look at that girl with the lights comin’ up in her eyes
She’s got to be somebody’s baby
She must be somebody’s baby
All the guys on the corner stand back and let her walk on by
She’s got to be somebody’s baby
She must be somebody’s baby
She’s got to be somebody’s baby
She’s so fine
She’s probably somebody’s only light
Gonna shine tonight
Yeah, she’s probably somebody’s baby, all right

As an attractive girl walks by, most guys assume that she is probably somebody’s girlfriend. Most high school boys use common sense that someone this attractive must already have a boyfriend.

I heard her talkin’ with her friend when she thought nobody else was around
She said she’s got to be somebody’s baby; she must be somebody’s baby
‘Cause when the cars and the signs and the street lights light up the town
She’s got to be somebody’s baby
She must be somebody’s baby
She’s got to be somebody’s baby
She’s so
She’s gonna be somebody’s only light
Gonna shine tonight
Yeah, she’s gonna be somebody’s baby tonight

This is how immature minds think, “someone that good looking can’t be single?” This is the main thought throughout Somebody’s Baby.

I try to shut my eyes, but I can’t get her outta my sight
I know I’m gonna know her, but I gotta get over my fright
We’ll, I’m just gonna walk up to her
I’m gonna talk to her tonight
Yeah, she’s gonna be somebody’s only light
Gonna shine tonight
Yeah, she’s gonna be somebody’s baby tonight
Gonna shine tonight, make her mine tonight

A shy teenager is trying to get over his fears, trying to muster up enough confidence to talk to this beautiful girl. He seeks to envision himself actually talking to her. The goal is to find out who she is with.

Final Thoughts:

At the beginning of my senior year of high school, I made the mistake of asking out the new transfer. I didn’t waste any time, asking her out the first weekend of the school year. Unfortunately, looks can be deceiving. Besides being grilled by her parents before taking her out, this was most boring date I ever experienced. I was cracking jokes throughout the movie, but only the couples in front and behind us were laughing. The following night I found out that she had a boyfriend and was afraid to tell me. Fortunately, I learned early on that what makes a woman beautiful is what is on the inside, not superficial appearances. One of Jesus’ disciples also learned a similar lesson in today’s Bible passage.

by Jay Mankus

Leave a comment

Posted in truth and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
→