As a songwriter, I go through lots of phases—dry spells, creative floods (on rare occasions), delicious times of discipline to write every day, regardless of inspiration. Recently, after a wildly busy time and not writing anything for ages, I decided to give myself one of those little challenges (5 songs in 5 days) that I use to jump start me back into the creative spirit…at least it gets me playing my guitar everyday.
It’s always seemed to me that some of the best songs come fully formed, as if they are floating around out there somewhere, and if I make myself available, I get to write it down…they are gifts. On the second morning of my recent songwriting challenge, I woke up with a lovely melody in my head. I got up and meditated, and then picked up a pencil and out came this song—exactly what I wanted to say, what I wish for and work for and have in my life—short, sweet and to the point. I’d like to share the words with you, and hope to get to sing it for you, and with you, someday soon.
PRAYER
Give me strength to do my best
Give me courage for the rest
Give me patience for the world
And times that I’m unsure
Let me see beyond the words
And find the heart wanting to be heard
Let my hands be soft and true
And let your healing through
Let me stand with open heart
Let my life become my art
Let me give, let me receive
And live my days with grace and ease
Thank you for the tears that cleanse
Thank you for the heart that mends
With gratitude that fills my soul
I am blessed and I am whole
words and music © 2008 by Ellen Stapenhorst
1 comments:
Looking forward to hearing you sing this at Journey to Center, Ellen. Just got back from an Arlo Guthrie concert. He talked about songs floating along a river and if you were there, you got to pick one up and share it with others. (Kept pointing out that being downstream from Bob Dylan was not a good idea as he seemed to get many of the good ones.)
Judy
Post a Comment