Ache

This morning at our church, the Wallingford trio sang in beautiful harmony a hymn to which I wrote the words and Nan Beth Walton wrote the music. 

Though I wrote the words 15 months ago, today it seems again appropriate. I ache for the Squirrel Hill community and all who are affected by violence. Here are the hymn's words. A women's singing group in Pittsburgh has asked to sing the hymn, which is a prayer. I hope it brings some small measure of solace to their great pain. 

O God of beauty and of breath

(Please) Ease my ache with loveliness.

(Please) Slow me down that I might see

All the gifts you’ve given me.

Slow my stride that I might see

A leaf in all its symmetry.

A snowflake’s drift from clouds of white

A full moon on a cloudy night.

O God of beauty and of breath

(Please) Ease my ache with loveliness.

(Please) Slow me down that I might see

All the gifts you’ve given me.

Slow my days that I might feel

Notice Kindness that might heal.

A prayer for love, a hand of peace,

A hope that caring would increase.

O God of beauty and of breath

(Please) Ease my ache with loveliness.

(Please) Slow me down that I might see

All the gifts you’ve given me.

O God of beauty and of breath.