The song "Thanks" by Waylon Jennings tells the story of a Sunday morning in the valley where the narrator and his daughter, Emmily Jane, attend a church service. Emmily Jane eagerly runs to meet her father, appearing slightly nervous but with a smile on her face. The community members from miles around also gather for the service. The lyrics describe how the congregation sings their thanks to the Lord for various blessings. They express gratitude for the sun shining in the sky, the healthy growth of crops like corn, and most importantly, for the child who didn't die. This suggests that the community has experienced a previous loss or tragedy, and they are thankful for the life of Emmily Jane, who survived. The song further portrays a joyous occasion when the narrator and Emmily Jane get married, with both families from the congregation present to celebrate. Emmily Jane is described as an angel, the sweetest thing in existence. The narrator's father hugs him, and his mother sheds tears of happiness while everyone around smiles with pride. Throughout the song, the expression of thanks to the Lord is repeated as a way to acknowledge all the blessings they have received. They are grateful for the abundant crops, the prosperity of the farm, the narrator's strong right arm, and the safety and protection that have been granted to them. Overall, "Thanks" is a heartfelt and uplifting song that tells a story of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in life, celebrating the joys and overcoming previous hardships. The song showcases the importance of faith and community in finding solace and happiness.
