I go down to the River to pray

The waterfront (any waterfront) is My Favorite Place.  Since I've never lived more than 45 minutes from a beach, and never more than 15 minutes from a river...it makes sense that I would find solace there. For me, it's the place where time stands still and shalom takes hold.  The lapping of waves or coursing water over rocks and rapids calms all of my anxious thoughts, fears, and frustrations.   It's a place where I can go and simply exist - my swirling thoughts fall silent, instead becoming swirling intimate prayers.   

There's an old, old Spiritual called Down to the River to Pray. It's one of my favorites...and is known by several names.  I grew up singing this song while working in the yard with my Grandpa, hearing my Grandma hum along from the kitchen window.    This hymn has always moved me profoundly.  In it's simplicity, it is deeply powerful.  

This Spiritual is believed to have held advice for slaves fleeing to Freedom...  

(you can read a brief blurb on that here - though I encourage you to educate yourself further on this hymn & it's origins!) Walking in the river would mask the scent from tracking hounds, the starry crown a message about navigating using the stars.

Of course, most profound (at least for me) is...
Good Lord, show me the way.
A desperate plea for safety, not only for traveling - but in life.
A phrase that despite the privileges I have in life, I still find myself uttering on a daily basis.

Some days it's comforting - a mantra serving as a security blanket that reminds me, it will be ok - everything is temporary.
Some days, it's a whimper from my Soul - when I'm overwhelmed and unsure of everything - a cry for reassurance that I'm on the right path.
Some days, it's a joyful refrain - as the water washes over my feet - a moment where no matter my circumstances, I'm reminded that it will be alright.

Are there any hymns or Spirituals that you're drawn to?  What are they?

XoXo,
M.M.