I Want Something to Live For

Mikey introduced me to Rocket Summer's awesome new CD, and I have been listening to it basically non-stop in my car. A lot of the songs have really deep meaning to me, but lately, I've especially been touched by the song "I want something to live for."

Here are some of the lyrics:

Once I was fearless, going up against the world.

Optimistic, seeing all the reasons for

Good through the darkness.

I could live through anything.

Where did that go?

I wanna feel it like I did back then

But more, I really need it more than I've ever before

I believed in hope, oh.

Where did it go?

Stop fearing death,

I want something to live for.

I've been holding my breath,

I want something to live for.

When I was younger, I felt like I could conquer the world. It seemed like every problem in the world could be solved, or at least made better. Somehow, that optimism and hope faded with time, or perhaps with the growing distractions of adulthood. But I've realized that I don't have to stop wanting to change the world. Growing up does not mean giving in. I am growing into a person who can do things that I never could have done as a child. If I am willing to take hold of my dreams and to stop letting fear of death (physical death, death of my reputation, death of my own ideas) drive me, I can make a change. Another thing I've realized lately is that when we stop focusing inward on all of our own problems and fears and when we start focusing outward on others, we end up feeling so much more fulfilled. I really believe that love is amazingly powerful! The Bible tells us that perfect love drives out all fear. I want to love people with God's love. I want to touch the world as God's hands extended to those in need. I want to make a difference, to leave a legacy. I want something to live for.