I'm the first one on at the Ashland station
Got a long way to go to my destination
Yeah, I always ride in the same old seat
Right in the middle where I can see
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
There's a woman thumbin' paper in a company folder
Black leather bag hangin' off her shoulder
With her pinstriped suit and her hair pulled back
She's a northbound woman on a management track
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
There's an old man sittin' with his hands in his lap
From a ticker tape world where they all wore hats
And I wonder why he rides alone
If there's anybody waitin' when he gets back home
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
I don't know you
I don't know you
I don't know nothin' 'bout you
But you don't know me
You don't know me
You don't know nothin' 'bout me
Wish I knew you
Wish I knew you
Wish I knew somethin' 'bout you
Wish you knew me
Wish you knew me
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
We're all just
Faces on a train
The doors slide open and a couple walks in
He hangs on the rail, she hangs onto him
I can't be sure but it might be love
'Cause the old man smiles and his eyes well up
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
Faces on a train
We're all just
Faces on a train
Never there early but we're always on time
We'll go our own way at the end of the line
And you don't know me and I don't know you
But we share the same air for a minute or two
On a train
Faces on a train
Wish I knew you
Wish I knew you
Wish I knew somethin' 'bout you
Wish you knew me
Wish you knew me
Wish you knew somethin' 'bout me
Faces on a train
"Faces On A Train" by Brandon Heath is a thought-provoking and introspective song that takes us on a journey through the lives of strangers we encounter on a train. The song captures the essence of human connection and the desire to know and understand the people around us.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the diverse individuals we come across in our daily lives. From the woman in the pinstriped suit, absorbed in her work, to the old man reminiscing about a bygone era, each person represents a unique story and a different perspective. It's fascinating to think about the lives they lead and the experiences that have shaped them.
In a world that often feels disconnected and impersonal, "Faces On A Train" reminds us of the common humanity we share. We may not know each other personally, but as we sit side by side, breathing the same air, we are connected by our shared humanity. The song expresses a longing to bridge the gap between strangers, to understand and be understood.
From a spiritual standpoint, the theme of the song resonates with the biblical call to love our neighbors as ourselves. In Matthew 22:39, Jesus commands us to "Love your neighbor as yourself." This includes not only those we know well but also those we encounter in passing, like the faces on a train. We are called to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every person and to seek understanding and connection with them.
Moreover, the song highlights the fleeting nature of these encounters. The train represents the transient nature of life, where people come and go, and connections are made and lost. It serves as a reminder to seize the opportunities we have to connect with others and not take these moments for granted.
The chorus of the song expresses a desire for mutual understanding and connection. The repetition of "I don't know you" and "you don't know me" emphasizes the barriers that exist between strangers. However, it also serves as a reminder of the potential for growth and connection if we were to take the time to know each other.
In a world where technology often dominates our interactions, "Faces On A Train" encourages us to look up from our screens and engage with the people around us. It reminds us that everyone has a story to tell, and by listening and seeking to understand, we can find common ground and build bridges of empathy and compassion.
Overall, "Faces On A Train" is a beautifully written and introspective song that prompts us to reflect on our interactions with others. It challenges us to break down the barriers that separate us and to cultivate a genuine interest in the lives and stories of those around us. By doing so, we can foster a sense of community and connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
