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 contemplative look at the experiences one gathers while navigating through life, symbolized by the 'many miles we walked' and the 'many things we learned.' The building and burning of a shrine could represent the efforts and passions we invest in, only to sometimes see them fade or change, which is a natural part of life's cycle.

The chorus, 'That's the way it is,' serves as a mantra of acceptance, acknowledging that life unfolds in ways that are often beyond our control. The song encourages embracing the journey, with lines like 'May the wind be at your back' and 'May the cards lay out a straight,' which are wishes for good luck and a smooth path forward. The imagery of the blue heron flying to new heights despite the 'meaning of the scar' suggests resilience and the importance of healing and moving on from past wounds.

The closing lines, 'Shine light into darkness,' resonate as a call to bring positivity and understanding into challenging situations. Lanois' song is not just a reflection on the inevitability of life's ups and downs, but also an encouragement to face them with grace and to learn from them. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the need to accept and adapt to life's ever-changing nature.