“Humans may be the only species that can imagine an unknown future. But that doesn’t mean we’re any good at it.”
--Adam Grant
Adam Grant’s recent article in the New York Times, “If You’re Sure How the Next Four Years Will Play Out, I Promise: You’re Wrong,” was brilliant. And it got me thinking about one of my favorite songs, “Ripple,” by one of my favorite bands, The Grateful Dead. I saw The Dead live countless times way back when. “Ripple” is featured on their terrific 1970 album, American Beauty, the cover shown above (You can watch and listen to The Dead perform this song here). There’s a link between what Adam Grant writes about in his article and “Ripple.” Let me explain.
Since life is filled with uncertainty, it can be a natural human reaction to strive for control and predictability. We want to believe that with careful planning we can shape our future. But as Adam Grant notes in his article, certainty is often an illusion. He challenges the idea of confidently predicting the future, reminding us that life is full of unexpected turns. Acknowledging this truth requires us to be vulnerable—being willing to let go of the need for control and accept that some things are simply beyond our grasp.
This theme resonates in "Ripple," which opens with the poetic line, “If my words could glow, like the gold of sunshine, perhaps they’re better left unsaid.” This phrase hints at the humility that comes with recognizing our limited control over the world. Sometimes, our intentions, hopes, or predictions are best kept quiet, with an understanding that life will unfold as it does, often in ways we cannot foresee. “Ripple” proposes that life’s journey isn’t something we can fully script or direct—it’s a path we walk with openness, embracing the unknowns along the way.
Embracing uncertainty requires trust—both in ourselves and in the process of life. As Grant suggests, it takes vulnerability to face an unpredictable future, to admit that even our best-laid plans may not come to fruition. “Ripple” expresses a similar sentiment, urging us to let go and move forward without the weight of expectations or rigid control. One of my favorite lines is “Let it be known there is a fountain that was not made by the hands of men,” which remind us there are forces beyond human control that shape our lives. This “fountain” can be seen as a symbol of the unknowns, the aspects of life that no amount of planning or prediction can alter.
In both Grant’s article and the song, there’s a call to accept life as it comes, rather than resisting or fearing the inevitable surprises along the way. This acceptance doesn’t mean we relinquish control or hope; no, it asks us to balance our efforts with an openness to outcomes we may not have anticipated. Just as “Ripple” encourages us to keep walking down our unique path, Grant reminds us that trust and courage are vital as we navigate life’s unpredictable turns.
Ultimately, this approach to life—one marked by vulnerability, trust, and acceptance—offers us a sense of freedom. Recognizing that we don’t control everything allows us to live with less fear and more curiosity, welcoming the unexpected rather than fearing it. It builds resilience. Whether inspired by Grant’s wisdom or the reflective lyrics of “Ripple,” the message is clear: Vulnerability and acceptance lead us to peace with life’s uncertainties.
Here are the complete lyrics to “Ripple.” Have a great day.
“If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine,
And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung.
Would you hear my voice come through the music?
Would you hold it near as it were your own?
It's a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken.
Perhaps they're better left unsung.
I don't know, don't really care,
Let there be songs to fill the air.
Ripple in still water,
When there is no pebble tossed,
Nor wind to blow.
Reach out your hand, if your cup be empty.
If your cup is full, may it be again.
Let it be known there is a fountain
That was not made by the hands of men.
There is a road, no simple highway,
Between the dawn and the dark of night,
And if you go, no one may follow,
That path is for your steps alone.
Ripple in still water,
When there is no pebble tossed,
Nor wind to blow.
You who choose to lead must follow,
But if you fall you fall alone.
If you should stand then who's to guide you?
If I knew the way I would take you home.”
This is a fabulous piece. I like how you connect Grant and the Dead's lyrics with the freedom of acceptance and vulnerability. Great song too!
Excellent article. It's a good reminder be open to the journey......