I Sang For Angels

This poem came through shortly after one of my very first times teaching a song. This took place at Song Village, at around the fire circle, where people who aren’t leading song circles on the program are encouraged to step forward in this safe space, facilitated by an experienced songleader(s), and lead.

i sang for angels

with pilgrims young and old

gathered around the crackling fire

i heard my name called

so i stood

facing the expectant crowd

among them three angels

i began to sing

tentatively at first

then stronger

as i asked all to follow

first the ancient words of the Psalm

then the wordless melody

then the verses

asking us to build this world from love

as i led

   taught

       encouraged

struggling to find my true voice

one angel smiled at me

the whole way through

and i felt her lifting me

higher even than the song could take me

that night i sang for angels

and just this once

the angels sang for me