The Meaning in Music

Written on 03/31/2025
Lt. Brian Ellis

I’m always in search of messages in the things I experience, whether in the music I hear, the conversations I have, or the television I sometimes watch.

On a recent family trip, I was listening to a song. Honestly, I’ve listened to it before, but I guess I didn’t hear it.

“Once I Was 7 Years Old” by Lukas Graham made me reflect on growth, the choices we make, and the passage of time.

Here are three takeaways I took:

1️⃣ Vision Shapes Your Path
“Soon I’ll be 30 years old…” The future comes whether we’re ready or not. Leaders don’t leave their future to chance—they set a vision and make intentional choices to shape a path ahead. Where do you want to be in one, five, or ten years?

2️⃣ Relationships Define Legacy
The song emphasizes the value of friends, family, and meaningful connections. You can’t do anything meaningful alone—life is building trust, empowering others, and surrounding yourself with people who help you grow. Who are the people you’re bringing with you?

3️⃣ Moments Become Milestones
Every small action contributes to the bigger story of your life. Reflect on the milestones you’re creating. Are you leading in a way that will make you proud when you look back?

Attention without intention is aimless. Intention without attention is useless. Success needs both!