What If

Matthew West's song 'What If' is a powerful anthem about living life to the fullest and avoiding the pitfalls of regret. The lyrics reflect a common human experience: the fear of looking back on life and realizing that one has missed out on what truly matters. West opens the song by acknowledging the advice to live as if one is dying, but admits that he often finds himself lying in bed, plagued by 'what if' questions. This introspection sets the stage for the song's central theme: the desire to live without regrets.

The chorus of 'What If' serves as a rallying cry for seizing the day. West questions what he would do if today were his last day, emphasizing the importance of making the most of every moment. He rejects the idea of being a 'should'a, would'a, could'a been,' and instead, commits to living in the present. The repetition of 'no regrets, in the end, I wanna know I got no what-ifs' underscores his determination to live a life free from the burden of missed opportunities.

In the bridge, West encourages listeners to 'dream a little bigger, burn a little brighter, stand a little taller, closer to your fire.' These lines inspire a proactive approach to life, urging people to dig deeper, reach further, and love harder. The song's message is clear: life is fleeting, and the only way to ensure a fulfilling existence is to embrace each day with passion and purpose. By the end of the song, West's resolve to live without regrets is both a personal declaration and a universal call to action, reminding us all to make the most of the time we have.