Starts With Me (feat. Aaron Cole)

Toby Mac's song "Starts With Me (feat. Aaron Cole)" is a powerful anthem that addresses the deep-seated issues of division and distrust in society, particularly in the context of the United States. The lyrics reflect on the historical and ongoing struggles with hate and injustice, questioning whether the nation has ever truly been united. This introspective approach sets the stage for a call to action, emphasizing that change must begin on an individual level. The repeated phrase "it starts with me" underscores the personal responsibility each person holds in fostering unity and healing.

The song delves into the generational transmission of prejudice and distrust, highlighting how these negative sentiments are often passed down from parents to children. Toby Mac and Aaron Cole acknowledge the heavy burden of history and the systemic issues that have eroded trust. However, they also offer a message of hope and empowerment, suggesting that despite these challenges, it is possible to rise from the ashes through confession, forgiveness, and compassion. The lyrics encourage listeners to look within themselves and take the first step towards reconciliation and healing.

The chorus, with its uplifting message of freedom and the possibility of fixing what has been broken, serves as a rallying cry for collective action. The song emphasizes the importance of mutual dependence and understanding, urging people to recognize their need for one another. The plea for divine guidance in the lines "Father, give us eyes to see" adds a spiritual dimension to the quest for unity, suggesting that true healing requires both human effort and divine intervention. Ultimately, "Starts With Me" is a call to dream of a better future, one where unity and freedom are achieved through individual and collective efforts.