I’ve heard ‘em say before to live just like you’re dying yeah
Wish I could say that’s how I am but I’d be lying yeah
And lying in my bed at night one too many times just thinking
What if, what if
My biggest fear is waking up to find what matters
Is miles away from what I spent my life chasing after
Is my story gonna have the same two words in every chapter?
What if, what if
But last I checked this heart inside my chest
Is still beating
Well I guess it’s not too late
What if today’s the only day I got?
I don’t wanna waste it if it’s my last shot
No regret,s in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs
I’m running till the road runs out
I’m lighting it up right here right now
No regrets, in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs, yeah
See I refuse to be a should a would a could a been
I can’t go back in time I don’t have a DeLorean
What I’m trying to say is I don’t wanna hear these words again
What if, what if
But last I checked this heart inside my chest
Is still beating
Well I guess it’s not too late, No No
What if today’s the only day I got?
I don’t wanna waste it if it’s my last shot
No regrets, in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs
I’m running till the road runs out
I’m lighting it up right here right now
No regrets, in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs
I’m gonna dream a little bigger
Burn a little brighter
Stand a little taller, closer to Your fire
Dig a little deeper
Reach a little further
Love a little harder
I’m gonna dream a little bigger
Burn a little brighter
Stand a little taller, closer to Your fire
Dig a little deeper
Reach a little further
Love a little harder
What if today’s the only day I got?
I don’t wanna waste it if it’s my last shot
No regrets, in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs
I’m running till the road runs out
I’m lighting it up right here right now
No regrets, in the end
I wanna know I got no what ifs, yeah
What If
What If Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Matthew West's song "What If," with its music video released on June 11, 2021, serves as a poignant reflection on the human tendency to live cautiously, often resulting in missed opportunities and future regrets. The opening verses lay bare a common experience: the disconnect between knowing one should live fully, as if each day were the last, and the reality of falling short. The artist articulates a deep-seated fear – the potential realization later in life that the pursuits one dedicated time and energy to were ultimately insignificant compared to what truly mattered. This internal questioning, encapsulated by the recurring "what if," highlights the anxiety surrounding purpose and legacy, and the fear of one's life story becoming monotonous or unfulfilled.
However, the song quickly pivots from introspection and anxiety to a powerful call to action. The realization that "this heart inside my chest is still beating" serves as a turning point, signaling that it is not too late to change course. The chorus directly confronts the initial fear by reframing the "what if" question: "What if today’s the only day I got?" This shift transforms the question from one of potential regret into a catalyst for urgency and intentionality. It champions the idea of living without restraint, seizing the moment ("lighting it up right here right now"), and striving for a life that culminates with "no what ifs" in the end, signifying a life lived to its fullest potential, free from the burden of missed chances.
The theme of avoiding a life defined by past inaction is further emphasized in the bridge. Phrases like refusing to be a "should a would a could a been" reinforce the commitment to present action over future lament. The lyrical progression encourages a proactive approach to life, rejecting the passive state of wondering what might have been. This resolve is not just about avoiding regret, but about actively pursuing growth and impact.
Building on this resolve, the song introduces a deeper dimension, urging listeners to "dream a little bigger," "burn a little brighter," "dig a little deeper," and "reach a little further." These aspirational calls represent a commitment to personal and spiritual growth. The line "Stand a little taller, closer to Your fire" connects this striving to a higher source, suggesting that purposeful and passionate living is intimately linked with faith and drawing near to the divine. This aspect elevates the song's message from mere self-improvement to a call for living a life guided by faith, seeking divine inspiration and strength to live more boldly, love more profoundly, and impact the world around us more significantly. The song concludes by reiterating the central message, reinforcing the urgency and determination to live each day with intention, ensuring that when looking back, there are no lingering questions of "what if."
