"One Nation"

One of the things I love so much about Sister Hazel is their decidedly liberal, socially active style.  They sing about issues I believe in.  "One Nation" is one of my favorites; it can be read as commentary on racism, sexism, any "ism" really.  Simply because I think that the message is powerful and beautiful (and a bit tongue in cheek as well!) I am going to post the full lyrics for this piece:

When you were born you didn't know
You thought we were the same
You know we walked the same - we talked the same
Although you never knew my name
But you were told when we were young
That I was not the same
"You know he's not the same - he's not the same!"
And then you never asked my name...

I say won't you have a lovely day
And then you come back telling me to go to hell

But it's One Nation Indivisible
One Nation Indivisible
One Nation Indivisible - oh my God it's irresistible
One Nation Indivisible

Well a baby is a baby A man he is a man
You know he tries the same - he cries the same
And then you know he dies the same
But when I ask in disbelief
And they say "just because!"
You know I have to state - we learn to hate
And man you know I can't relate...!

 

I believe children are born full of love, willing to be open to anyone who comes their way.  It is only the way they are taught, both by their families and by society at large, that causes them to learn to hate.