That's The Way It Is

Daniel Lanois' song 'That's The Way It Is' is a reflective piece that delves into the themes of life's journey, acceptance, and the pursuit of wisdom. The lyrics suggest a narrative of personal growth and the inevitability of change, as well as the importance of resilience in the face of life's challenges.

The opening lines speak to the experiences gained through life's travels and the lessons learned along the way. The 'building of a shrine' only to see it burn could symbolize the efforts and passions we invest in, which may not always lead to permanent achievements, but rather to fleeting moments that we must learn to let go. This idea is reinforced by the chorus, 'That's the way it is,' which serves as a mantra of acceptance and understanding that life is a series of events that we cannot always control.

The imagery of the blue heron flying to new heights represents the courage to move forward and trust in the journey, despite not knowing the outcome. The question about the meaning of a scar if we don't learn to heal suggests that pain and hardship are only valuable if they lead to personal growth and understanding. The song closes with a call to 'shine light into darkness,' encouraging listeners to seek out positivity and hope even when faced with adversity. Overall, Lanois' song is a poignant reminder to embrace the ebb and flow of life with grace and determination.