Monica O’Brien sent an e-mail around with her eWorship newsletter recently, highlighting contemporary and uptempo music. Most of them I have blogged here already, but a few are new, so I’m going to have a look.
“Can I?” is a song about homelessness from the marvellous Amanda McKenna that might suit a high school exploring social justice issues.
The sheet music can be purchased at Willow. There is no sample there, so listen to Amanda’s amazing voice on Soundcloud. My backing involves some guesswork. There is a hint of Split Enz’s “My Mistake” at times in the tune.
1 One day you’re just hanging on, the next in dire straits.
The things you least expect become the fears you have to face.
But there’s nowhere safe, a place to call home.
You’re so scared and ashamed, now you’re all alone’
And it could happen to anyone.
2 She’s been hurt so many times it doesn’t faze her anymore.
She fades into the background like a thousand times before.
Who knows what she’ll face when the sun goes down?
Got no private space where she can let her guard down.
She’s never been so lonely.
Chorus
Can I, hold out my hand?
Learn how to stand with my sister and walk with my brother.
Can I, open my heart?
Listen with love to my sister and talk with my brother.
Can I?
3 Dirty and depressed and hasn’t had enough to eat.
He’s sleeping rough and acting tough, surviving on the street,
And it’s cold outside but nobody cares if her lives or dies.
Might even be easier that way.
He’s never been so angry.
Chorus
© 2007 Amanda McKenna