Photo by Kwong Yee Cheng
The finale of my memoir soundtrack is a simple, yet beloved song. I chose it because of its simplicity. Because it reminds me of the hills of Oregon, even when it’s a lone piper playing on a busy Olympic street in Vancouver (one played for us Saturday). Amazing grace is what happens in the midst of very bad days, discouraging news, disagreements with friends and family, hurts, shame, anger, and pain.
It’s a reminder that I can keep walking even after I fall down. It’s a reminder that things may not make sense now, but they will later. It’s a sign that there is Someone out there watching over me.
Perhaps we’re more afraid of there actually being a God rather than there being no God. The idea that there is no God can free us to be apathetic (what difference does it make, who will even care?) or stuck (why should I push past the memories, why does it matter?) or prone to mockery (You believe in God? How ridiculous?). I think sometimes I fear that God really does exist. I realize that there are no more excuses I can make, no more things I can blame. God exists. I am not Him.
This ends my memoir soundtrack feature (a new feature starts this week). These ten songs describe ten years of my life. I find it fitting closure. A life lived, a life beckons, Amazing Grace.
From the Amazing Grace soundtrack (the story of William Wilberforce; he holds a place of honor at Westminster Abbey; shown above)
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.
{ 4 comments }
Grace *IS* amazing isn’t it????
May you be lavished with grace today, my friend. Biggest of hugs to you!
Yes, IT IS! I enjoy wallowing in it. Need to do it more though.
Thank you! You too! Big hug back!
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