Patti LaBelle - On My Own Lyrics
Lyrics
So many times
Said it was forever
Said our love would always be true
Something in my heart always knew
I'd be lying here beside you
On my own
On my own
On my own
So many promises
Never should be spoken
Now I know what loving you cost
Now we're up to talking divorce
And we weren't even married
On my own
Once again
One more time
By myself
No one said it was easy
But it once was so easy
Well I believed in love
Now here I stand
I wonder why I'm on my own
Why did it end this way (on my own)
This wasn't how it was supposed to be (on my own)
I wish that we could do it all again
So many times
I know I could have told you
Losin' you, it cuts like a knife
You walked out and there went my life
I don't want to live without you
On my own
Once again
This wasn't how it was supposed to be (on my own)
I wish that we could do it all again (on my own)
I never dreamed I'd spend one night alone
By myself
I've got to find out what was mine again (on my own)
My heart is saying that it's time again (on my own)
And I think that I'm as sure as you
Video
Patti LaBelle - On My Own ft. MICHAEL MCDONALD
Meaning & Inspiration
Patti LaBelle's "On My Own," released on October 7, 2009, is a profound exploration of self-reliance and the quiet strength found in independence, particularly when facing life's inevitable challenges. While the song itself doesn't directly reference Christian doctrine, its central theme resonates deeply with the biblical principle of individual accountability and the growth that comes from weathering storms on one's own. The narrative, sung with LaBelle's characteristic power and vulnerability, speaks to that moment of realization that sometimes, the most effective path forward is one taken alone, relying on inner fortitude. This can be seen as mirroring the spiritual journey where individuals are called to stand firm in their faith, often through personal trials that refine their character.
The message of "On My Own" echoes the sentiment found in scriptures that encourage personal resilience and dependence on one's own capabilities, honed through experience. Consider the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5-6, which advises trusting in the Lord with all your heart and not leaning on your own understanding, but also knowing that acknowledging Him will direct your paths. This isn't a contradiction, but rather a balance; the song emphasizes the latter part of that balance – the active process of navigating life's terrain, a journey that often requires drawing upon the strength within, a strength that can be seen as divinely given. It speaks to the maturity that comes from facing adversity without immediate external support, much like how figures in the Bible often had to trust in their own convictions and God's guidance when isolated.
Further, the song’s exploration of enduring difficulties can be linked to the concept of perseverance, a cornerstone of Christian walk. James 1:12 highlights the blessedness of enduring trials, for when one has stood the test, they will receive the crown of life. "On My Own" captures this essence of enduring, of finding a quiet resolve in the face of solitude or hardship. It’s about recognizing that while community and divine help are vital, there are moments when the personal decision to rise above, to face the day with determination, becomes the crucial step. This internal locus of strength, this quiet confidence, can be interpreted as a reflection of developing an unshakeable inner compass, guided by principles that, for a believer, ultimately stem from a deep-seated trust in a higher power, even when that trust is expressed through personal action. The song, therefore, serves as an anthem for those moments when one must find their footing and walk forward, trusting the strength that has been cultivated, a strength that, in a spiritual context, is often forged in the crucible of personal reliance and faith.