Drink The Water

Justin Cross's song 'Drink The Water' delves into the complexities of faith, societal norms, and the human condition. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references, painting a vivid picture of the struggles and contradictions inherent in modern life. The repeated line 'I know of sin by the things momma prayed' suggests a deep-rooted understanding of morality and sin, passed down through generations. This line, along with 'I know of heaven by the line at its gate,' juxtaposes the spiritual with the mundane, highlighting the often transactional nature of faith in contemporary society.

The chorus, 'Don't drink the water if it's not from my stream,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the exclusivity and dogmatism that can pervade religious and social institutions. The idea that 'it's all still water if it's not flowing free' critiques the stagnation that occurs when beliefs and practices become rigid and unyielding. This is further emphasized by the line 'If you ain't got money, it can't save your soul,' which critiques the commercialization of salvation and the inequities that arise from it.

The song also touches on the human tendency to turn to faith in times of crisis, as seen in the lines 'Nobody prays unless they lose a son' and 'Don't believe in God till a war's to be won.' These lines underscore the conditional nature of belief and the way it is often invoked in moments of desperation. The final verses, with lines like 'It's not a sin if it don't make me cry' and 'It's not a victory 'till the battle's been won,' explore the subjective nature of morality and the human penchant for defining truth and righteousness on their own terms. Through its poignant lyrics, 'Drink The Water' offers a thought-provoking commentary on faith, morality, and the societal constructs that shape our understanding of both.