Shadow
SOJA feat. Trevor Young Lyrics

I'm not a shadow
I am not invisible or insignificant

I'm not the ground beneath your feet
I am not merely a foundation or support system for someone else

'Cause I'm not a shadow
I am not someone who is easily overlooked or ignored

When you look down, you wont see me
I am not beneath or subservient to anyone, and cannot be diminished by others' views or opinions

I'll stand up and I'll stand tall, I don't follow anyone
I am independent, self-reliant, and stay true to myself instead of blindly conforming to societal norms or others' expectations

Here's to you don't settle, and never separate
Celebrate those who refuse to compromise their values, individuality, or dreams for someone else's benefit

And never be quiet 'cause the words you say
Speak up and use your voice to make a positive impact, even when others try to silence you

You never go back on and never turn around
Stay true to your commitments and convictions, even if it's difficult or unpopular

Never judge another 'cause as stupid it sounds
Respect and appreciate diversity in all forms, even if it challenges your preconceived notions or beliefs

And were here now when they are way back when
The present moment is where true progress and change can happen, not by dwelling on the past or waiting for others to take action

So why try to please everyone?
Trying to constantly appease everyone else through people-pleasing or conformity is ultimately futile and unfulfilling

When it seems that all the people really want
The desire for genuine love, respect, and acceptance is universal, transcending race, gender, religion, or any other societal divides

Is to show love, and out and get love back
By giving love, compassion, and kindness to others, we can create a positive ripple effect and enjoy reciprocity from those we touch

Is to show some faith and get respect
Maintaining faith and hope in humanity can lead to mutual respect and understanding, even in the face of adversity or difference

Just look at the world then, you look at the problems
Recognize the global issues and injustices that continue to plague our planet, and take proactive steps to address them instead of ignoring or avoiding them

And look at the hatred, and we still cant solve it
Despite the widespread presence of hatred, division, and conflict in the world, there is still a need to work towards reconciliation, cooperation, and unity

So look inside and you'll find step one
Self-reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth are crucial components of creating meaningful change and progress

Forget a diamond I'm shinin' like the sun
I am radiant and brilliant, and my worth and value cannot be defined by material possessions or societal standards of success

Here's to you on your own, the innocent criminal
Acknowledge and commend those who embody a sense of rebellion or nonconformity, even if they go against the grain or are misunderstood by society

You never fit the mold, you never go sit down
Resist the urge to limit yourself by conforming to traditional expectations or rigid stereotypes, and continue to push boundaries and challenge the status quo

You never go get approval no matter how you prove
The pursuit of validation or external approval can detract from your own authenticity and identity, and should not be the sole measure of success or worth

That love is the motive in everything you do
Prioritize love and compassion in all aspects of life, and strive to make a positive impact on others through acts of kindness and empathy

And revolution is you and you're against the machine
Real change and progress often come from individuals who are willing to challenge the norms and systems in place, and work towards a more equitable and just society

When the video is over you want your turn now so
Don't simply watch from the sidelines or follow others' lead, but take an active role in creating and shaping your own destiny

You make the truth and move straight ahead
Trust your own intuition and sense of right and wrong, and move forward with conviction and purpose

While the followers behind you get left for dead
By breaking away from the pack and forging your own path, you can ultimately find more fulfillment, meaning, and success than by simply blending in or following the herd

For the imminent brainwash follow the dumb rules
Avoid being indoctrinated, conditioned, or manipulated by societal pressures, biases, or expectations that may stifle your own creativity or authenticity

Created by individuals who unlike you
Those who seek to define, control, or suppress others are often vastly different from those who are confident, independent thinkers with their own unique perspective

Don't care for the world or, care for the people
Individuals who lack empathy or social responsibility may be more focused on personal gain or power than on the greater good of humanity

They love it their way, and they love unequal
A self-centered mentality that perpetuates inequality, discrimination, or injustice is not only harmful to others, but also undermines the potential of society as a whole

And they love when they feel above someone
A sense of superiority, elitism, or entitlement can lead to arrogance, resentment, and a lack of connection or empathy with others

I don't follow the leader when they're all wrong
Blindly following those in power or authority without questioning their motives or decisions is often dangerous or misguided, and it is better to trust your own judgment and moral compass

'Cause I'm not a shadow, oh, no no
I am a unique, valuable individual with my own voice, thoughts, and ideas, and I refuse to be obscured or overlooked by others