My legs and my feet have walked 'till they can't hardly move
From tryin' to please you
And my back is sore from bendin' over backwards
To just lay the world at your door.
And I'm trying so hard to keep a smile on a sad face
While deep down it's breakin' my heart
And as sure as the sunshines I'll be a lifetime
Not knowin' if I've done my part.
'Cause you take me for granted
And it's breakin' my heart
And as sure as the sunshines I'll be a lifetime
Not knowin' if I've done my part.
And as sure as the sun shines I'll be a lifetime
Not knowin' if I've done my part...
"You Take Me For Granted" is a classic country song released by Merle Haggard in 1983. It is a heartfelt ballad that explores the feelings of being unappreciated and taken for granted in a relationship. With its introspective lyrics and soulful delivery, the song resonates with listeners who have experienced similar emotions in their own lives.
The song begins with Haggard expressing his physical exhaustion from constantly trying to please his partner. He sings, "My legs and my feet have walked 'till they can't hardly move, from tryin' to please you." This line vividly portrays the lengths he has gone to in order to make his partner happy, but it seems that his efforts have gone unnoticed.
As the song progresses, Haggard reveals the emotional toll that this dynamic has taken on him. He mentions his aching back from "bending over backwards" and his struggle to maintain a smile on his face while his heart is breaking. These lyrics reflect the frustration and sadness that come from feeling unappreciated in a relationship.
In terms of scriptural references, the song aligns with the theme of love and selflessness found in the Bible. In the book of Ephesians, it states, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (Ephesians 5:25). This verse emphasizes the importance of sacrificial love and serving one another in a relationship. Haggard's lyrics speak to the struggle of trying to fulfill this biblical commandment while feeling taken for granted.
The song also touches on the concept of gratitude and appreciation, which are recurring themes in the Bible. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, it says, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." This verse encourages believers to express gratitude in every situation, including relationships. Haggard's lament about not being appreciated highlights the importance of recognizing and expressing gratitude for the efforts of our loved ones.
Furthermore, the song captures the human desire for validation and recognition. In Matthew 6:1, Jesus says, "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." This verse reminds us that seeking validation from others can be empty and unfulfilling. Haggard's lyrics reflect this yearning for acknowledgment and appreciation, as he sings about not knowing if he's done his part.
"You Take Me For Granted" is a timeless country song that delves into the complex emotions of feeling unappreciated in a relationship. With its relatable lyrics and heartfelt delivery, it has resonated with listeners for decades. Through its exploration of themes such as sacrificial love, gratitude, and validation, the song provides a poignant reflection on the dynamics of human relationships. Merle Haggard's masterful storytelling and emotive vocals make this song a standout in his impressive discography.
