My Gen X Playlist: Kind and Generous – Natalie Merchant

The key word in today’s prompt is luxury. It’s difficult for me to pick something that I may complain about if it’s gone missing when so many are without basic needs. It a reminder that I only have first world problems. I have a roof over my head, food on the table, clean drinking water, indoor plumbing and a functioning heater/AC. That’s far more than many people in this world. I feel fortunate that I won the lottery of being born in a developed country. It’s really the luck of the draw when you think about it. No complaints here. I’ve got more than enough that I’m grateful for.

Natalie Merchant released Kind and Generous in 1998. Even though it’s not quite a fit for today’s prompt, I like the sentiment of gratitude and appreciation.

This is one of the more straightforward Natalie Merchant songs. She explained in her VH1 Storytellers special: “I’m proud of the song because I always wanted to write a song that had an extremely universal, simple sentiment. And just gratitude, that’s all this song is about and really I feel like I accomplished my mission: simple, to the point. And everyone knows what I’m talking about the first time they hear the song, and they can sing along.”

– Songfacts

The song’s message is simple: gratitude. The lyrics encourage listeners to appreciate the kindness and generosity shown to them, whether it be from friends, family, or even strangers. It is about recognizing the good in the world and being grateful for it. In a world that can often be filled with negativity, “Kind and Generous” serves as a reminder that there is still goodness out there.

– oldiesmelody

I think that says it all.

–

For a complete playlist, please click here.

For the Spotify playlist, please click here.

You've been so kind and generous
I don't know how you keep on giving
For your kindness I'm in debt to you
For your selflessness, my admiration
And for everything you've done 

You know I'm bound... 
I'm bound to thank you for it 

You've been so kind and generous
I don't know how you keep on giving
For your kindness I'm in debt to you
And I never could have come this far without you
So for everything you've done 

You know I'm bound... 
I'm bound to thank you for it 

I want to thank you
For so many gifts
You gave with love and tenderness
I want to thank you 

I want to thank you
For your generosity
The love and the honesty
That you gave me 

I want to thank you
Show my gratitude
My love and my respect for you
I want to thank you 

I want to... 

Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you