Country music often receives mixed emotional feedback among millennials when played at social gatherings. To most, there is the general misconception that country music is old-fashioned, twangy, non-relatable, and only geared towards country-folk or farmers. To those who grew up listening to or discovered this unique and timeless genre, it is clear that this is not at all true. Especially today, country music has so much variety, including "Bro-Country," mainstream, the classics, and everything in between. What really makes this genre so influential is the life lessons and values it instills in its listeners. There is a song that is relatable to every life situation. Here are some major lessons country music has taught me.

1. There isn't always going to be a happy ending.

Oh yes, those lovely country songs that speak about the hard times-- where the song describes EVERYTHING that could possibly go wrong in life. It's a good reminder that it is okay if things didn't work out exactly how they were planned. Everyone goes through hardships. Life is unpredictable, and the bad times make the good times even better.

2. Never apologize for being too patriotic.

Country Music is known for its plentiful ballads about the USA, and these songs are constant reminders of how lucky we are to live in this great nation. You can never be too patriotic.

3. Make sure to get away from the city sometimes.

Yes, big metropolitan areas are great, but it is so important to get away and disconnect from such highly polluted, hectic and stressful environments. The best country songs are reminders that some of the best memories people make are when they are enjoying time spent outdoors in the middle of nowhere.

4. Morals and manners will never go out of style.

"Yes ma'am, no sir, please and thank you" are words that seem to have been forgotten by millennials. Nothing is more charming than a person who shows that they are respectful and were raised with class. Country music was founded on these principles and the lyrics are a serious reflection of that.

5. There is a proper way that a man should treat a lady.

Nearly every country song exemplifies that every relationship should be filled with love, respect, honesty, and communication. Just listen to a few songs by George Strait, Keith Urban, or Tim McGraw and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. Never settle ladies...

6. The water fixes everything.

Whether it be a Kenny Chesney song about the coastline, Zac Brown singing about the ocean, Brad Paisley's childhood river hangout, or some small creek with no name, time spent by the water can fix any heartbreak or fuel any party. Life wouldn't be possible without water, literally!

7. Be proud of your family and where you come from.

Have a little hometown pride! Country music is all about loving what makes you who you are, and nothing says this more than your family and hometown. Whether you're from a big city or a small town, there's definitely a song dedicated to the feeling you have for the place and people you consider home.

8. Love Life.

Even if you are experiencing a really difficult time, Country music serves as a great reminder that there is always something to be thankful for. Even the most simplest of things can cheer anybody up. A wise country singer once said, "You only get so many trips around the sun..." so live life to the fullest and enjoy as much as you can. Make every moment count!

Now THAT is what Country Music is all about.