This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
Let it shine, Let it shine, Let it shine!
Originally Penned for Sunday School Students
in the 1920’s by Pastor and music teacher Harry Dixon Loes, this ditty, with many additional verses created over the years, went on to become an anthem of the Civil Rights movements in the 50’s and 60’s.
“Music Was An Anchor. It Kept Us From Being Afraid”
said Freedom Singer Rutha Mae Harris. And this song shines on into today, timeless in its simple statement of strength and joy.
The Power of Music and Light
symbolizes for me all that I love about this time of year. I grew up in Montreal singing Christmas Carols, a real treat for a little Jewish girl.
One year, my best friend and I, along with our Mothers, attended a Christmas Eve Mass at St. Joseph’s Oratory, a magnificent shrine. The ritual, the soaring music and the rich light everywhere filled me with awe. And respect.
I Feel Blessed Indeed
to find the beauty and grace of both Christmas and Chanukah. Lighting the candles of the Menorah and singing the ancient Hebrew melodies is a tradition that moves me to tears. Belting out Christmas Carols around a piano is a yearly joy I look forward to with total delight.
In a Perfect Synchronicity
I attended a performance of the Soweto Gospel Choir in Boston this week. The final number, bringing all of us swaying to our feet and singing along, honored the 100th anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s birth.
And what did these fabulous South African musicians choose to sing? Hallelujah. Written by Leonard Cohen, the Jewish Canadian singer-songwriter who grew up in my community in Montreal. How perfect is this?
Raise Your Voice
My Holiday wish for you, for now and for the year ahead, is to raise your voice. In song. In honesty. In spirit. Let your words be heard in whatever way works for you. Speak your truth and know that you make a difference.
May Your Light Shine
And may your personal flame burn bright. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for speaking about who you are and what you stand for. Thank you for being part of my world.
Happy, Happy Holidays
from my home to yours. I hope this little light of mine, will join this little light of yours, in spreading joy. May your days be merry and bright, and may all your communications be just right.