My favorite song is amazing grace as sung by my mother on beautiful spring days at the kitchen sink.
Mom wasn’t a singer. I mean, she wasn’t horrible but it’s not something that she normally did and she didn’t sing in the choir at church. She sang with the congregation when we all did but, normally… she didn’t sing.
That made those occasions when I got to listen to her special. Maybe it was the weather or a very special day for her. Maybe she was just in a good mood on those days. Whatever it was, I was glad when it happened.
She would start slowly, singing a part of the first verse and then starting over until she got it just the way she wanted. Then, in the slow steady gait of Amazing Grace the rest of the song would flow through our home. Dishes clinked as she washed them and you could occasionally hear the song change as she moved about the kitchen.
As I stood in the living room hidden by a wall I listened to her strong, clear voice sing the song. She sang it acapella, of course, and she sang every word with heartfelt meaning. She sang all six versus (you didn’t even know there WERE six verses did you?) in a slow steady rhythm that embraced you with warmth and love.
It was peaceful standing there listening to her celebrate her life with God as she went about the chores of life. A special moment with her (even if she didn’t know I was there) that I get to keep as mine alone. It anchored that spot in time for me so that I can go back there any time and listen to her sing for me.
I love the song. I loved my mama singing it more.
The lyrics:
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.
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
What a wonderful memory to have that can stay with you forever! That is golden!
I’m sure your kids have similar moments… possibly even some that you don’t even remember creating… 🙂
This is an absolutely beautiful post, Jinksto.
You’ve made me feel closer to my mom with it. Thank you for that.
cjh
Thanks CJ