Songs for the Journey (a PCS Playlist)

I’ve never been much of a music connoisseur, since music wasn’t really a part of my gifting or training, and in my quest to reduce overwhelm in my life, curating an extensive music collection is something that fell by the wayside. But because my love languages include gift giving, words of affirmation, and experiences of quality time, I have always been a mix tape giver! My earliest compilations were cassette tapes that included songs by Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, and the Cranberries, collected for elementary school best friends. My playlists look a bit different now, and although they might not be particularly refined or wide in scope, it is a joy to me that I can share that part of myself with my own children now.

As I’ve shared in previous posts, music is one way to reach a child’s heart and encourage them through transitions. I’ve long had a playlist I call “Songs for the Journey” which I’ve listened to for courage and inspiration during the many moves I’ve made across the country, even before I was a mom or a military spouse. I play them for my kids now during every PCS, and the kids have added some to the list, as well. Below are a few of our favorites to encourage you during your next relocation, transition, or road trip. You can listen to the playlist here on Spotify.

I hope it will encourage your heart and help you find joy in the journey.

Songs for the Journey

*Many Roads by Andrew Peterson
“Could it be that the many roads you took to get here…were meant to bring you here all along?”
This has been the first song on the playlist for years. It is fascinating to consider how our own paths and decisions weave together with the journeys of the people we encounter along the way, creating beautiful, interconnected stories with our lives.

*Faith My Eyes by Caedmon’s Call
“So keep them coming, these lines on the road, and keep me responsible, be it a light or heavy load.”
A song that acknowledges the bittersweet sting of homesickness along with the knowledge that a life on the move is still full of blessings and meaningful character-shaping.

*You Belong (Among the Wildflowers) by Jen Miller Music Collective
“Don’t you know wherever you go, child, I am already there?”
A song written by a mother for her daughter, this free-spirited melody reminds us that we have Someone who goes ahead of us, too. We may not be able to tend garden beds in this transient lifestyle, but we’re wildflowers roaming free.

We Won’t Be Shaken by Building 429
“Whatever will come our way… we won’t be shaken.”
A family battle hymn that inspires strength, determination and faith in the face of challenges.

More by Boiling Point
“We’re going to come out bent but not broken, hurt but still hoping.”
We might get a bit battered by the things life throws our way, but there’s so much light and hope ahead.

*Pressing On by Relient K
“Out of mind, out of state, trying to keep my head on straight”
With line after line that a military spouse can relate to, this upbeat anthem will propel you forward to your next place and encourage you to leave the worries behind.

*Shine On by Needtobreathe
“Can’t you see My hands are open? I’m waiting just ahead.”
This song echoes many of the themes of the others: Moving forward and shining bright. This one’s been on our moving playlist since before we were even a military family and brings back memories of driving through the cornfields of the Midwest.

*World Traveler by Andrew Peterson
“Pack your bags and dig down deep.”
After longing to travel the world, a man realizes that the best adventure is navigating the hearts of his own family.

Big World, Baby by JJ Heller
“You’re not too small to do great things.”
A reminder for your youngest ones that you’ll be there for them through all of the changes, and that they’ve got a calling, too.

Sky of Mine by Jen Miller Music Collective
“It will be alright, child, I am giving you the sky.”
An upbeat little tune especially encouraging for the little ones, and their mamas, too.

To the Sky by Owl City
“There’s more to this brave adventure than you’d ever believe.”
A dreamy and inspiring perspective for kids who are hopping on that plane to somewhere new. I can’t help feeling like I’m ready to soar when I listen to this, and the subtle message that “wide eyes will always brighten the blue” is a great reminder that looking at life with a sense of wonder can help us get through the rough spots.

Ready Set Go by Royal Tailor
“I can hear that You’re calling me to be the hope, be the light, be the love.”
Another reminder that you have a noble calling in the place you’re being led to.

Day One by Matthew West
It’s day one of the rest of my life… here I come.”
A hopeful song about the gift of a fresh start.

Shooting Star by Owl City
“It’s time for you to shine.”
My kids love this one, especially if I toss them between beds or couches as they dance to it. I love hearing them sing about how they’re going to shine anywhere they go.

Wonderful Unknown by Ingrid Michaelson
“Here we go, dancing on our own, inside this house that we have never known.”
A sweet picture of marriage during relocation, with a couple walking bravely into their life in an unfamiliar place. What military spouse can’t relate to joking with your significant other that “you’ll be the death of me”?

Mistake of My Life by Caedmon’s Call
“Since we met, my life’s been so up in the air. Here today, but by next week I could be there.”
A cheeky song that will remind the military spouse of the craziness of committing to this lifestyle.

Over Now by Needtobreathe
“Lift up your head, look out the window, cause it’s almost over now.”
Encouragement to persevere when the way seems long.

Little by Little by Jen Miller Music Collective
“Twig by twig she is determined, for her love is not in vain.”
A mother can relate to the bird outside her window who labors long to build her nest only to see it washed away with the coming season. Both of these mothers will rally and build their nests again. A touching tribute to the grief of leaving behind the places we loved and raised our babies in, and how there’s hope for us mamas as we do it all again one more time.

This is Home by Switchfoot
“I’ve been searching for a place of my own and now I’ve found it. Maybe this is home. Yeah, this is home.”
On letting go of the past and finding where you belong now.

This Little Light of Mine by JJ Heller
“Everywhere I go, I’m going to let it shine…”
This childhood song never loses its relevance and this sweet version is particularly poignant for the child or adult being called to new places.

——————————————————————————————————–

I’m always looking for more tracks to add, so if you’ve got any favorites that would fit on this list, please share below!