The nature of truth is a long conversation. We often, in the church, speak of it as though it is an exact thing that we can define or capture between the covers of a designated book. Outside of the church, it’s a philosophical tome or a microscopic film. We can’t capture truth. It is not to be nailed down. More and more I become convinced that we need to speak (and sing) of truth as a moving target. This week’s song reflects the vast variety of truths out there and, I hope, suggests that we can live with such diversity as long as our values remain those that seek to give to humanity instead of simply take.
<
p style=”text-align: center;”>‘Til All, in Truth, Are Free
Tune: Aurelia
Traditional Hymn: The Church’s One Foundation
<
p style=”text-align: center;”>If truth still guides our journey,
where does it lead from here?
Our world lies there before us
but nothing seems that clear.
We used to think we knew things,
that all had been revealed,
but now all truths we question,
and much is yet concealed.
<
p style=”text-align: center;”>Our faith in higher powers,
our confidence in love,
our hope for bright tomorrows
our trust in things above –
each must be proved and tested:
what’s fantasy, what’s truth?
It’s while we’re on this journey,
we one another soothe.
<
p style=”text-align: center;”>If we would share with others
the way we choose to live;
if justice and compassion
inspired us all to give,
we would not need to worry
that truths do not agree
for all could live together
in love and harmony.
<
p style=”text-align: center;”>So walk with me in courage
across truth’s great divides.
We’ll listen to each other
until the hate subsides.
Together we’ll speak boldly
of what the world still needs
and speak a truth to power
‘til all, in truth, are free.
© 2015 gretta vosper
This poem moved me to tears. I am a Quaker so we do not sing hymns as part of our worship, however, if I was a confidant singer (and knew the tune) I would stand up in meeting and sing this. Thank you for your books, thoughts and presentations, they speak to me.
In Friendship, Jean
Thank you so much for these beautiful sentiments, Jean!
I pictured you in the Sharon Temple, standing strong and singing beautifully! David Wilson, you may know, built the Sharon Temple not far from here because, despite being a Quaker, he believed music was essential for the human spirit and so formed the Children of Peace. Wilson was a charismatic leader and the movement died out following his death but it was a significant element in the faith history of what was then Upper Canada. You can find out more at http://www.sharontemple.ca .
best,
gretta