JJ Heller - Wild And Precious Life Lyrics
Lyrics
What were they thinking when they let us take you home?
Could they not see the fear behind our eyes?
You could fill up the Grand Canyon with the things we didn't know
We only knew our love for you was just as deep and wide
We got some things wrong and some things right
We had lovely dreams
And sleepless nights
But every sunrise brings another chance to be surprised
Sometimes a leap of faith is the best thing we can do
'Cause if we wait until we're ready, we're never gonna move
So we listen to the music and take one step at a time
'Till we find that we are dancing through this one wild and precious life
Saw your first steps turn to running
Then to scraped and broken arms
And we felt the winds of change begin to blow
We didn't know how quickly you'd trade bicycles for cars
Then we were packing up your room doing our best to let you go
Sometimes a leap of faith is the best thing we can do
'Cause if we wait until we're ready, we're never gonna move
So we listen to the music and take one step at a time
'Till we find that we are dancing through this one wild and precious life
I'm holding all the memories and I'm holding back my tears
And I'm treasuring this moment in my heart
The song is almost over, and your new life nearly here
Before you go, I hope you know how proud of you we are
You'll get some things wrong and some things right
You'll have lovely dreams
And sleepless nights
But every sunrise brings another chance to be surprised
Sometimes a leap of faith is the best thing we can do
'Cause if we wait until we're ready, we're never gonna move
So we listen to the music and take one step at a time
Until we find that we are dancing
How I love to see you dancing through this one wild and precious life
Video
JJ Heller - Wild And Precious Life (Official Audio Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
JJ Heller's "Wild and Precious Life," released on February 4, 2022, is a profound reflection on the journey of parenthood, a theme that resonates deeply with its listeners. The song's narrative unfurls from the initial apprehension and overwhelming responsibility of bringing a child home, acknowledging the vast unknowns that accompany such a monumental task. Heller captures the raw vulnerability of new parents, admitting their imperfections – "We got some things wrong and some things right" – yet emphasizing the unwavering depth of their love, a love described as "just as deep and wide." This sentiment echoes the boundless love of God for His children, as David so beautifully expresses in Psalm 36:5, "Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds." The song beautifully acknowledges that this journey is characterized by both "lovely dreams" and "sleepless nights," a relatable reality for anyone navigating the challenges of raising a family. The recurring refrain, "every sunrise brings another chance to be surprised," speaks to the constant unfolding of life, much like God's mercies which are new every morning, as lamented by Jeremiah in Lamentations 3:22-23: "The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
The core message of "Wild and Precious Life" centers on embracing the unknown with courage and faith, particularly through the metaphor of taking a leap. Heller wisely asserts, "Sometimes a leap of faith is the best thing we can do / 'Cause if we wait until we're ready, we're never gonna move." This resonates powerfully with the biblical call to step out in faith, trusting in God's guidance rather than relying solely on our own preparedness. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages this very principle: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." The song further illustrates this by suggesting we "listen to the music and take one step at a time," finding our rhythm and joy in the process, ultimately leading to "dancing through this one wild and precious life." This imagery of dancing, of moving with grace and freedom, suggests finding a God-given purpose and fulfillment even amidst life's complexities.
As the song progresses, Heller traces the child's growth, from "first steps turn to running" to the bittersweet realization of their impending independence. The poignant depiction of "packing up your room doing our best to let you go" is a masterful encapsulation of parental love's dual nature – nurturing growth while simultaneously preparing for separation. This act of releasing, of allowing a child to embark on their own path, is a profound lesson in trust and letting go, mirroring how God allows us the freedom to make our own choices, trusting that we will ultimately return to Him. The lyrics convey a deep pride in the child's journey, a wish for them to navigate their own challenges – "You'll get some things wrong and some things right / You'll have lovely dreams / And sleepless nights" – understanding that these experiences are integral to their development. The song culminates with a tender embrace of the present moment and a hopeful anticipation of the child's future, emphasizing the enduring love and support of the parents. This is a beautiful testament to the lasting impact of love and guidance, reminding us that even as we face new beginnings, the foundation of love remains, much like the enduring covenant of God's love for humanity. The entire piece serves as an inspiring reminder that life, with all its unpredictable turns, is indeed "wild and precious," a gift to be embraced with open hearts and unwavering faith.