Meaning of "Just Because I Do" by My Morning Jacket

The lyrics of "Just Because I Do" deal with the complexities of a relationship where one person is constantly enabling the destructive behavior of their partner. The narrator is torn between wanting their partner to change for the better and realizing that they may need to distance themselves from the toxic situation. The repeated phrase "just because I do" suggests a sense of duty or obligation in the narrator's actions, even when it may be harmful to them. The mention of writing letters and witnessing their partner's repeated negative behavior highlights a sense of desperation and helplessness in trying to salvage the relationship. Ultimately, the narrator acknowledges that they may need to let go of the relationship for their own well-being, as represented by the line "I'll get rid of you." The song captures the emotional turmoil and conflicting desires present in relationships where one person feels responsible for the other's well-being but realizes they can't continue sacrificing their own happiness.