Content of the Soundtrack:
Here are the lyrics and narration on the CD:
“Crosses”
Floating and drifting.
Hovering, shifting.
Living this dream, being, existing.
Mercies that find us.
Pleasures and kindness.
Moments of joy that are treasured and lovely.
Burdens that find us.
Crosses that bind us.
Moments of pain that are measured and lonely.
Woven together.
Woven forever.
Canvas of life and the colors are endless.
Hovering, shifting.
Living this dream, being, existing.
Mercies that find us.
Pleasures and kindness.
Moments of joy that are treasured and lovely.
Burdens that find us.
Crosses that bind us.
Moments of pain that are measured and lonely.
Woven together.
Woven forever.
Canvas of life and the colors are endless.
Dating
Narration: Davey and Beth grew up a few hundred miles apart in suburban America in the 60’s and 70’s. They were good kids – nothing amazing but no real trouble, either. In their separate worlds, they were living the American Dream. They each had good, loving families. They took advantage of the many opportunities that came their way in school, church and socially. They confronted and generally overcame the usual set of problems that present themselves to teenagers. They were good kids.
So let’s catch up with them. They’ve graduated high school, have started college. The same college. They meet in the library. Davey awkwardly asks Beth to help him with math and hints that, if that goes well, perhaps they could go on a date. Beth reluctantly agrees. And so begins a relationship and, oddly enough, a romance.
So let’s catch up with them. They’ve graduated high school, have started college. The same college. They meet in the library. Davey awkwardly asks Beth to help him with math and hints that, if that goes well, perhaps they could go on a date. Beth reluctantly agrees. And so begins a relationship and, oddly enough, a romance.
"Dating Song"
On our first date. He was late. Said he couldn’t concentrate.
Pretty hair. Smelled so nice. I was falling deep in love
Give me strength. Oh, what a bore. I had seen his type before
Funny, smart, angelic voice. Falling, falling deep in love
Second date, a better day. Endearing in a goofy way.
Beautiful. So beautiful. I think she may just be the one
He’s not so bad. It took a while. Can’t believe he made me smile
Aphrodite, Parvati, and Venus all wrapped up in one
D: I am in love with a goddess of beauty
She fills my thoughts day and night
Oh if she could love me, I would be so happy.
Third and fourth date. I was shocked. Yes, we laughed and played and talked.
I think she likes me. I’m surprised. What a very lucky guy.
Fifth and sixth date. Really fine. Odd enough I think he’s mine
Really likes me. Really does. What a super lucky guy.
B: What are these feeling that stir deep inside me?
Is this the man of my dreams?
Yes, he is my white knight bordering on Fright Night.
B: He won my love. We’re hand in glove.
D: We’ve made plans to seal our love.
B: He’s the one, still not sure why.
D: Honored, happy, lucky guy.
Both: Now hand in hand we will go to the altar.
With dreams and devotion we’ll kneel.
And that’s where we’ll seal our love
Pretty hair. Smelled so nice. I was falling deep in love
Give me strength. Oh, what a bore. I had seen his type before
Funny, smart, angelic voice. Falling, falling deep in love
Second date, a better day. Endearing in a goofy way.
Beautiful. So beautiful. I think she may just be the one
He’s not so bad. It took a while. Can’t believe he made me smile
Aphrodite, Parvati, and Venus all wrapped up in one
D: I am in love with a goddess of beauty
She fills my thoughts day and night
Oh if she could love me, I would be so happy.
Third and fourth date. I was shocked. Yes, we laughed and played and talked.
I think she likes me. I’m surprised. What a very lucky guy.
Fifth and sixth date. Really fine. Odd enough I think he’s mine
Really likes me. Really does. What a super lucky guy.
B: What are these feeling that stir deep inside me?
Is this the man of my dreams?
Yes, he is my white knight bordering on Fright Night.
B: He won my love. We’re hand in glove.
D: We’ve made plans to seal our love.
B: He’s the one, still not sure why.
D: Honored, happy, lucky guy.
Both: Now hand in hand we will go to the altar.
With dreams and devotion we’ll kneel.
And that’s where we’ll seal our love
Marriage
Narrator: Nervous but deeply happy they gather amidst family and friends to marry.
"Write It On Your Heart"
In you I see a distant sunrise.
The magic wonder of a child’s eyes.
A color wheel of flowers around me.
Warm and bright and peaceful.
From two to one we make a new start.
We melt together into one heart.
United now, we’ll be together,
Inseparable forever.
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
Wrapped in your arms I’ve found a new life
We start anew as one man, one wife
So happy for this step we’re taking
And these vows we’re making
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
And on this day we vow to cherish and adore
In sickness or in health, safe harbor evermore
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
The magic wonder of a child’s eyes.
A color wheel of flowers around me.
Warm and bright and peaceful.
From two to one we make a new start.
We melt together into one heart.
United now, we’ll be together,
Inseparable forever.
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
Wrapped in your arms I’ve found a new life
We start anew as one man, one wife
So happy for this step we’re taking
And these vows we’re making
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
And on this day we vow to cherish and adore
In sickness or in health, safe harbor evermore
You can write it on your heart, engrave it.
Always I will love you.
You can write it on your heart and seal it.
You and I will never part. Write it on your heart.
Behold This Boy
Narrator: Well, time moves on. The happy little couple begins a new chapter with the addition of a son. They are in the nursery, looking at their precious son, Daniel, as he sleeps. Davey then picks him up gently and describes the future he sees for his son.
"A Boy"
Behold this boy, this daddy’s boy!
He’ll be my life and pride and joy!
Something great awaits this lad.
And when it comes, he’ll thank his Dad.
He’ll be like BamBam or Hercules.
He’ll prob’ly cure some dread disease.
Maybe a lineman, I don’t know,
He might have his own fishing show.
Boy scout, pilot, brave Marine,
Tall and handsome, just like me!
Oozing pure testosterone,
Our son, our child, our very own.
Beth:
Look what we and God have done.
Tiny, helpless, little one.
To be held and loved and fed.
Sheltered, taught and gently led.
He’ll be good to everyone.
A kind, respectful, perfect son.
Not too shy and not too loud.
He’ll always make his mama proud.
Healthy, strong and full of life,
He’ll find his way and find a wife.
Raise a family, find true joy.
That’s the plan for this dear boy.
Davey: OK, he can hug and kiss his Mom.
And hug me too… but not too long.
Beth: And he can join the football team
… if his room is mostly clean.
Both: protect his family, confront his fears.
Laugh a lot, and shed some tears.
Make us equal to this test.
Our boy, our child, deserves the best.
He’ll be my life and pride and joy!
Something great awaits this lad.
And when it comes, he’ll thank his Dad.
He’ll be like BamBam or Hercules.
He’ll prob’ly cure some dread disease.
Maybe a lineman, I don’t know,
He might have his own fishing show.
Boy scout, pilot, brave Marine,
Tall and handsome, just like me!
Oozing pure testosterone,
Our son, our child, our very own.
Beth:
Look what we and God have done.
Tiny, helpless, little one.
To be held and loved and fed.
Sheltered, taught and gently led.
He’ll be good to everyone.
A kind, respectful, perfect son.
Not too shy and not too loud.
He’ll always make his mama proud.
Healthy, strong and full of life,
He’ll find his way and find a wife.
Raise a family, find true joy.
That’s the plan for this dear boy.
Davey: OK, he can hug and kiss his Mom.
And hug me too… but not too long.
Beth: And he can join the football team
… if his room is mostly clean.
Both: protect his family, confront his fears.
Laugh a lot, and shed some tears.
Make us equal to this test.
Our boy, our child, deserves the best.
Overflowing
Narrator: Two more years roll by. Life is good. They have two boys now as Paul has joined the family. Davey is alone and pondering how sweet life is.
“Overflowing”
Can the coast be any clearer? Can the scene be more secure?
Can the road be any smoother? Or the pathway be more sure?
A home, a job, friends and family, little boys and gentle wife.
A family so full of promise. I am loving this sweet life.
Glass half empty? Not for me. Mine is full as it can be.
Overflowing happy. Overflowing that’s me.
Can my heart be any fuller? Can my love be more sincere?
Can this life be any richer, than right now or than right here?
Peaceful, loving, understanding. Patient, kind in every way.
This family so full of promise. I am loving every day.
Glass half empty? Not for me. Mine is full as it can be.
Overflowing happy. Overflowing that’s me.
Can the coast be any clearer? Can the scene be more secure?
Can the road be any smoother? Or the pathway…. Can it be, can it be more sure?
Narrator: The pathway does seem clear. But Davey gives into anther, unsettling feeling.
Can the road be any smoother? Or the pathway be more sure?
A home, a job, friends and family, little boys and gentle wife.
A family so full of promise. I am loving this sweet life.
Glass half empty? Not for me. Mine is full as it can be.
Overflowing happy. Overflowing that’s me.
Can my heart be any fuller? Can my love be more sincere?
Can this life be any richer, than right now or than right here?
Peaceful, loving, understanding. Patient, kind in every way.
This family so full of promise. I am loving every day.
Glass half empty? Not for me. Mine is full as it can be.
Overflowing happy. Overflowing that’s me.
Can the coast be any clearer? Can the scene be more secure?
Can the road be any smoother? Or the pathway…. Can it be, can it be more sure?
Narrator: The pathway does seem clear. But Davey gives into anther, unsettling feeling.
“Let Me Not Lose My Own”
I could praise this glorious day.
I should stand and shout hurray.
Ideally life looks this way.
Why then do I stop to pray?
Caring for these little ones
Has my heart and brain undone.
Can we feed and clothe and care,
Protect and teach this little pair?
Knees buckle, body quakes,
Muscles weaken, heart aches.
Let us not, Lord, fail these few
Souls that we received from you.
Never have we walked this road.
Atlas bore no greater load.
My good wife and I plead now.
Teach us patience, teach us how.
Knees buckle, body quakes,
Muscles weaken, heart aches.
We can not do this alone.
Let us not, Lord, lose our own
I could praise this glorious day.
I should stand and shout hurray.
Ideally life looks this way.
Why then do I stop to pray?
Caring for these little ones
Has my heart and brain undone.
Can we feed and clothe and care,
Protect and teach this little pair?
Knees buckle, body quakes,
Muscles weaken, heart aches.
Let us not, Lord, fail these few
Souls that we received from you.
Never have we walked this road.
Atlas bore no greater load.
My good wife and I plead now.
Teach us patience, teach us how.
Knees buckle, body quakes,
Muscles weaken, heart aches.
We can not do this alone.
Let us not, Lord, lose our own
I could praise this glorious day.
The Diagnosis
Narrator: Daniel is six now, Paul is four. Davey knows that Beth has taken Daniel to the doctor. Daniel is physically slower than the other kids his age and it’s been getting worse. Beth wants answers.
Davey is asleep on the couch when Beth arrives home. The opening door wakes him. Beth is clearly troubled. Davey helps bring the sleeping boys in from car. They lay the boys in their beds and return to the family room.
A very emotional Beth describes for Davey that Daniel has a horrible disease – Muscular Dystrophy. She tells him that his muscles started dying the day he was born, that there’s no cure, that he’ll be in a wheelchair by age 10 and will not live past his early 20’s. Davey is in shock and alternates between holding the crying Beth and nursing his own grief and fear. After a while, Davey and Beth slowly move into the bedroom. They look at Daniel asleep and run their fingers through his hair.
Davey is asleep on the couch when Beth arrives home. The opening door wakes him. Beth is clearly troubled. Davey helps bring the sleeping boys in from car. They lay the boys in their beds and return to the family room.
A very emotional Beth describes for Davey that Daniel has a horrible disease – Muscular Dystrophy. She tells him that his muscles started dying the day he was born, that there’s no cure, that he’ll be in a wheelchair by age 10 and will not live past his early 20’s. Davey is in shock and alternates between holding the crying Beth and nursing his own grief and fear. After a while, Davey and Beth slowly move into the bedroom. They look at Daniel asleep and run their fingers through his hair.
"Can This Be?"
Can this be? Am I awake?
My racing heart is about to break
Dearest boy, our little boy
Our hope, our life, our greatest joy
No Marines, no family
Am I awake? Oh, can this be?
Shattered dreams, numbing fear
Like a nightmare looming near
Is there a reason for this thing?
Did we or he do something wrong?
It makes no sense. It can’t be so.
Perhaps the “why” we’ll never know.
This we know, the dreams are gone
And yet we must somehow go on
Darkness, sadness everywhere
I hope not more than we can bear
Narrator: Davey wanders into the kitchen. Beth is now alone with a sleeping Daniel and prayerfully pleads.
My racing heart is about to break
Dearest boy, our little boy
Our hope, our life, our greatest joy
No Marines, no family
Am I awake? Oh, can this be?
Shattered dreams, numbing fear
Like a nightmare looming near
Is there a reason for this thing?
Did we or he do something wrong?
It makes no sense. It can’t be so.
Perhaps the “why” we’ll never know.
This we know, the dreams are gone
And yet we must somehow go on
Darkness, sadness everywhere
I hope not more than we can bear
Narrator: Davey wanders into the kitchen. Beth is now alone with a sleeping Daniel and prayerfully pleads.
"Take it From Him"
I believe that you are there
And that you love and watch and care.
I am trying to be good
And do the things I know I should.
I don’t know why this test came.
I’ll not ask why or call you names.
You may not honor this, my plea
And yet I have to ask. Oh please,
Take it from him! Take it away!
Can’t we erase this awful day?
Oh, that he were healthy now.
I’d sacrifice it all, I vow!
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
(repeat)
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
Well, that is truly how I feel.
You do with it what you will.
I’ll be back tomorrow and
I’ll ask the same thing once again.
And that you love and watch and care.
I am trying to be good
And do the things I know I should.
I don’t know why this test came.
I’ll not ask why or call you names.
You may not honor this, my plea
And yet I have to ask. Oh please,
Take it from him! Take it away!
Can’t we erase this awful day?
Oh, that he were healthy now.
I’d sacrifice it all, I vow!
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
(repeat)
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
Well, that is truly how I feel.
You do with it what you will.
I’ll be back tomorrow and
I’ll ask the same thing once again.
The Woman I Love
Narrator: Davey: Life goes on somehow. Davey and Beth vow to love and support and be there for Daniel, no matter what the disease does to him. Daniel still enjoys T-ball and sports and activities, even though he is weak and slow and seldom has success. The family learns even more deeply that people are good as they see teammates and coaches support Daniel.
They have plenty of hard moments, like when Daniel’s Christmas list for Santa only includes one thing: a new set of muscles. Or when they say evening prayers and Daniel asks God for new muscles so he can run like the other boys. While such experiences are hard for both Davey and Beth, Davey understands that it takes a horrible toll on the woman he loves.
They have plenty of hard moments, like when Daniel’s Christmas list for Santa only includes one thing: a new set of muscles. Or when they say evening prayers and Daniel asks God for new muscles so he can run like the other boys. While such experiences are hard for both Davey and Beth, Davey understands that it takes a horrible toll on the woman he loves.
"The Woman I Love"
Given me in marriage, she was young and sweet and dear.
Full of dreams inviolate, the path was bright and clear.
Raise a family, love her husband, laugh along the way.
Stumble here and there, but sing and dance and play.
Given stones when bread was asked, or so it seemed to be.
A child so loved and beautiful who suffers endlessly.
Murmur, question, cry a stream, then humbly let it be.
God be God and she His child eternally.
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love, she needs comfort and love from me.
Inhumane the sufferings be that God allows to rage.
Our reaction to these plagues will makeus foul or sage.
Being so, my bride has won the battle to be wise.
When this life is through she’ll rise into the skies.
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love. She needs comfort and love from me.
Let her hopes be lifted, let some days be fair
Let me hold her gently, ease her cares
Lift the heavy burdens and the cross, the heavy cross, that she bears
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love. She needs comfort and love, comfort and love, from me.
Full of dreams inviolate, the path was bright and clear.
Raise a family, love her husband, laugh along the way.
Stumble here and there, but sing and dance and play.
Given stones when bread was asked, or so it seemed to be.
A child so loved and beautiful who suffers endlessly.
Murmur, question, cry a stream, then humbly let it be.
God be God and she His child eternally.
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love, she needs comfort and love from me.
Inhumane the sufferings be that God allows to rage.
Our reaction to these plagues will makeus foul or sage.
Being so, my bride has won the battle to be wise.
When this life is through she’ll rise into the skies.
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love. She needs comfort and love from me.
Let her hopes be lifted, let some days be fair
Let me hold her gently, ease her cares
Lift the heavy burdens and the cross, the heavy cross, that she bears
The woman I love, she bleeds. Please let her heart find peace.
This woman I love. She needs comfort and love, comfort and love, from me.
The Talent Show
Narrator: A little time has passed. The family is home having a little fun. Daniel and Paul lead a spirited family meeting and talent show. The boys tell jokes, dance and sing. After Paul does an interpretative dance to the accompaniment of Daniel’s loud singing, Daniel performs his favorite song.
"The Basic Food Groups"
Carrots and onions, tomatoes and beans.
Broccoli and celery and other green things.
Spinach and beets, avocadoes and peas.
Potatoes and chard and red beet greens.
These should all be banned!
Here are the food groups that I would recommend:
Brownies, of course, and ice cream non-stop.
Tacos with cheese but no lettuce on top.
Fruit Loops and chocolate and crispy french fries.
Gummi worms, chips, and hot apple pies!
Cookies for breakfast
Candy for lunch
Pastries and treats, I love to eat
So sing it one more time
Brownies, of course, and ice cream non-stop.
Tacos with cheese but no lettuce on top.
Fruit Loops and chocolate and crispy french fries.
Gummi worms and chips, and hot apple pies!
Broccoli and celery and other green things.
Spinach and beets, avocadoes and peas.
Potatoes and chard and red beet greens.
These should all be banned!
Here are the food groups that I would recommend:
Brownies, of course, and ice cream non-stop.
Tacos with cheese but no lettuce on top.
Fruit Loops and chocolate and crispy french fries.
Gummi worms, chips, and hot apple pies!
Cookies for breakfast
Candy for lunch
Pastries and treats, I love to eat
So sing it one more time
Brownies, of course, and ice cream non-stop.
Tacos with cheese but no lettuce on top.
Fruit Loops and chocolate and crispy french fries.
Gummi worms and chips, and hot apple pies!
The Grind
Narrator: A few more years have passed. Daniel has lost the ability to walk and has fragile health. He gets around in a power wheelchair. The rigors of caring for a sick child take their toll on Dave and Beth.
"It's Not Like in the Movies"
Every tragic movie starts with someone sweet and fair.
Talent, beauty, teeth so white and flowing golden hair.
Family, friends and life is good, then sickness lays them low.
The golden one confronts disease and ends up as hero.
He or she is brave and true and valiant to the end.
And they earn their angel’s wings, the script perfectly penned.
Wavering and weak-kneed flaws are strictly not allowed.
Formulaic Hollywood and Greeks must be so proud.
It’s not like in the movies in a three-part tragedy.
Glamour runs and drama hides when enters dread disease.
Patience wanes and tempers flare, regrettable lines ensue.
Seldom easy, seldom fun when loved ones fade from view.
Endless doctors, drugs, delays in serial nightmare.
Episodic rays of hope are crushed by raw despair.
It’s not like in the movies, no Brian Piccolo.
We’re sadly in the credits of an awful horror show.
It’s not like in the movies in a three-part tragedy.
Glamour runs and drama hides when enters dread disease.
Patience wanes and tempers flare, regrettable lines ensue.
Seldom easy, seldom fun when loved ones fade from view.
Talent, beauty, teeth so white and flowing golden hair.
Family, friends and life is good, then sickness lays them low.
The golden one confronts disease and ends up as hero.
He or she is brave and true and valiant to the end.
And they earn their angel’s wings, the script perfectly penned.
Wavering and weak-kneed flaws are strictly not allowed.
Formulaic Hollywood and Greeks must be so proud.
It’s not like in the movies in a three-part tragedy.
Glamour runs and drama hides when enters dread disease.
Patience wanes and tempers flare, regrettable lines ensue.
Seldom easy, seldom fun when loved ones fade from view.
Endless doctors, drugs, delays in serial nightmare.
Episodic rays of hope are crushed by raw despair.
It’s not like in the movies, no Brian Piccolo.
We’re sadly in the credits of an awful horror show.
It’s not like in the movies in a three-part tragedy.
Glamour runs and drama hides when enters dread disease.
Patience wanes and tempers flare, regrettable lines ensue.
Seldom easy, seldom fun when loved ones fade from view.
Paul Goes to College
Narrator: Time passes. Paul has headed off to college but is home for the weekend. The family gathers in the living room to discuss his pending departure.
They discuss what Paul is learning, who he’s hanging out with, and what he’s learning. It’s a light and cheery discussion and then Paul turns serious.
They discuss what Paul is learning, who he’s hanging out with, and what he’s learning. It’s a light and cheery discussion and then Paul turns serious.
"Thankful"
Around me are people so full of despair.
Everywhere, broken and bare.
There’s too little care. But I am aware
That I have been given through luck or design,
Family so fine, a chance to shine.
The stage is mine. Heaven is kind.
Thankful that I have family like you.
Grateful for rules, and guidelines too.
Not too many, not too few.
Able to choose what I want to do,
Totally free, and I do agree.
I’m thankful. I’m thankful for you.
Everywhere, broken and bare.
There’s too little care. But I am aware
That I have been given through luck or design,
Family so fine, a chance to shine.
The stage is mine. Heaven is kind.
Thankful that I have family like you.
Grateful for rules, and guidelines too.
Not too many, not too few.
Able to choose what I want to do,
Totally free, and I do agree.
I’m thankful. I’m thankful for you.
The Call
Narrator: Davey and Beth are in the family room. Daniel is in his room in his power wheelchair. The phone rings. Davey picks up and, after a moment, motions to Beth to grab the other phone. The President of the university that Paul is attending is on the line. He is somber and has news. There has been a terrible accident. Davey quickly asks if Paul has been hurt. The Chancellor pauses and responds that Paul has passed away, that is very sorry, and that Davey and Beth should come quickly. They are in shock. Daniel overheard the whole conversation. They run to Daniel and hug him for a good, long while.
It’s a week later. Davey, Beth and Daniel arrive home from the funeral, still in shock. They go into separate rooms, each expressing their emotions, Daniel first.
It’s a week later. Davey, Beth and Daniel arrive home from the funeral, still in shock. They go into separate rooms, each expressing their emotions, Daniel first.
"Take It From Him Reprise"
Take it from him! Take it away!
Can’t we erase this awful day?
Oh, that he were healthy now.
I’d sacrifice it all, somehow!
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
Narrator: Davey is in the bathroom, having just punched his hand through the wall.
Can’t we erase this awful day?
Oh, that he were healthy now.
I’d sacrifice it all, somehow!
Take it from him! Give it to me!
Take me now but let him be!
I would crawl right in the grave
If, by dying, he’d be saved.
Narrator: Davey is in the bathroom, having just punched his hand through the wall.
"Fed Up"
Fed up, sent up, pent up, shut up.
I am all of these.
Burned out, turned out, zoned out, drowned out.
Someone help me, please.
Beat down, sent down, pushed down, shut down
Darkness all around.
Hopeless, useless, clueless, helpless
Writhing on the ground
All bad, poor lad, real mad, so sad.
Begging on my knees.
Way down, stay down, I am lost not found!
I want to scream and I want to cry
Why did he go and why did he die?
He is gone and I just don’t know why
Fed up, sent up, pent up, shut up.
I am all of these.
Burned out, turned out, zoned out, drowned out.
Someone help me, please.
All bad, poor lad, real mad, so sad.
Begging on my knees.
Way down, stay down, I am lost not found!
I am all of these!
I am all of these!
Narrator: And Beth is in a heap by her bed.
I am all of these.
Burned out, turned out, zoned out, drowned out.
Someone help me, please.
Beat down, sent down, pushed down, shut down
Darkness all around.
Hopeless, useless, clueless, helpless
Writhing on the ground
All bad, poor lad, real mad, so sad.
Begging on my knees.
Way down, stay down, I am lost not found!
I want to scream and I want to cry
Why did he go and why did he die?
He is gone and I just don’t know why
Fed up, sent up, pent up, shut up.
I am all of these.
Burned out, turned out, zoned out, drowned out.
Someone help me, please.
All bad, poor lad, real mad, so sad.
Begging on my knees.
Way down, stay down, I am lost not found!
I am all of these!
I am all of these!
Narrator: And Beth is in a heap by her bed.
"Stop This"
Stop this now.
No more pain.
No more awful, endless rain.
You go on but I’ll remain.
I’m stepping off this hell-bound train.
Downs have ups, so they say.
They are wrong.
The downs just stay.
The game is over.
I won’t play.
Leave me here and go away.
And every time that I awake,
Expecting peace as morning breaks,
The sun just sneers and looks away
And leaves the weight of many days.
Such gloom is wrong, such primal ache.
The heart will give but then will break.
Let me loose.
Let me go.
Lock the door and close the show.
No more pain.
No more awful, endless rain.
You go on but I’ll remain.
I’m stepping off this hell-bound train.
Downs have ups, so they say.
They are wrong.
The downs just stay.
The game is over.
I won’t play.
Leave me here and go away.
And every time that I awake,
Expecting peace as morning breaks,
The sun just sneers and looks away
And leaves the weight of many days.
Such gloom is wrong, such primal ache.
The heart will give but then will break.
Let me loose.
Let me go.
Lock the door and close the show.
A Rose
Narrator: It is now a month later. Davey and Beth are in the living room. They are slowly getting a grip on things, on life. They discuss their sorrows and struggles. They reconfirm their love to each other, even in these trying times. They talk about how much they love and miss Paul and how they will have that same feeling when Daniel finally passes. Beth expresses how she views her boys.
"A Rose"
Settled in a bed of brown,
Nestled into fertile ground,
Nourished, watered, loved and lit
The rosebush gives it’s magic gift,
Springs the rose! And all who see
Admire it’s brilliance, majesty.
Nature’s awesome love display!
My rose shines for all its days.
Alas, the days move quickly on.
My rose was here but now is gone.
The petals fall, it’s time has passed.
Loved and lovely, but gone at last.
Worth the effort! Worth the loss!
Beauty – timeless - worth the cost.
Even now the memory sweet.
I had a rose that bloomed for me.
Nestled into fertile ground,
Nourished, watered, loved and lit
The rosebush gives it’s magic gift,
Springs the rose! And all who see
Admire it’s brilliance, majesty.
Nature’s awesome love display!
My rose shines for all its days.
Alas, the days move quickly on.
My rose was here but now is gone.
The petals fall, it’s time has passed.
Loved and lovely, but gone at last.
Worth the effort! Worth the loss!
Beauty – timeless - worth the cost.
Even now the memory sweet.
I had a rose that bloomed for me.
Goodbye
Narrator: Now it’s a year later. Davey and Beth have hung in there. But Daniel is drifting. He is lying in his bed in his room at home. Davey arrives home, kisses Beth and they talk in the family room. They enter the room quietly. Daniel awakens and greets his Dad. Davey hugs him gently. They talk about how hard life is now for Daniel, who is ready to join Paul and his grandparents. Davey tells Daniel that he’s sorry that so many of Daniel’s dreams have gone unfulfilled. Daniel beckons his parents close and, with his last words, lovingly corrects his father and says goodbye.
"I Walked"
I had…..
A thousand dreams or maybe two
And some might that think that none of them have yet come true.
It isn’t so. It seems to me
That life is more than bucket lists I’ve come to see.
I walked alone, I even ran (well, kind of).
I stood and fell and stood again, just like a man.
So thankful for the peace I’ve known
And for the precious loving ones I call my own.
(Brief interlude)
I saw this life through my own lens.
It wasn’t bad, and not so sad, and now it ends.
With few regrets and fewer fears,
I’ll miss you both, I’ll see you soon, now dry your tears.
(Brief interlude)
Goodbye for now, you precious one.
Oh what a gift to have and hold you as our son.
We give you up to God above
And send you there with loving care and all our love.
A thousand dreams or maybe two
And some might that think that none of them have yet come true.
It isn’t so. It seems to me
That life is more than bucket lists I’ve come to see.
I walked alone, I even ran (well, kind of).
I stood and fell and stood again, just like a man.
So thankful for the peace I’ve known
And for the precious loving ones I call my own.
(Brief interlude)
I saw this life through my own lens.
It wasn’t bad, and not so sad, and now it ends.
With few regrets and fewer fears,
I’ll miss you both, I’ll see you soon, now dry your tears.
(Brief interlude)
Goodbye for now, you precious one.
Oh what a gift to have and hold you as our son.
We give you up to God above
And send you there with loving care and all our love.
Living
Narrator: It’s a few weeks later. Davey just watched an old home movie of Daniel and Paul as babies. He is now kneeling by the bed.
"Joy and Pain"
Davey: So, dear Father, I’ve been thinking………
Baby, happy, and not wanting more
Brother tickles him upon the floor
Happy giggles, baby’s all aglow
Play time ends. Brother turns to go.
Left alone, Baby wonders why
No one there so he screams and cries
Was he better lying peacefully
Or giggling then crying endlessly
Why is pain so close to joy? Why does happy walk with sad?
Why are valleys close to mountain peaks? Why do castles turn to sand? To sand?
Bridge (no lyrics)
Why is pain so close to joy? Why does happy walk with sad?
Why are valleys close to mountain peaks? Why do castles turn to sand? To sand?
Will you even out the landscape, please
It can’t be hard, I’m asking on my knees
What’s that you say? OK, I know.
I just thought I’d ask. It’s time to go.
Baby, happy, and not wanting more
Brother tickles him upon the floor
Happy giggles, baby’s all aglow
Play time ends. Brother turns to go.
Left alone, Baby wonders why
No one there so he screams and cries
Was he better lying peacefully
Or giggling then crying endlessly
Why is pain so close to joy? Why does happy walk with sad?
Why are valleys close to mountain peaks? Why do castles turn to sand? To sand?
Bridge (no lyrics)
Why is pain so close to joy? Why does happy walk with sad?
Why are valleys close to mountain peaks? Why do castles turn to sand? To sand?
Will you even out the landscape, please
It can’t be hard, I’m asking on my knees
What’s that you say? OK, I know.
I just thought I’d ask. It’s time to go.
Standing
Narrator: Years have passed. Davey has some gray hair and is a volunteer school bus driver. Beth got a nursing degree, works at a local hospital and is in scrubs. In a quiet moment at home they share their feelings about life to each other.
"Standing Still"
Standing still a moment, carving out this time.
Reflecting on the landscape of this life of mine.
Peaks too high to conquer, streams too wide to cross,
Troughs too deep to walk through without incurring loss.
Yet here I am still standing tall despite the rough terrain
One like me survived the storms and walked through wind and rain.
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found
Standing still.
My wings are torn and tattered but I know I still can fly.
I may not soar unfettered, I may not rise too high.
Record it in the book of life and bind it with a seal
That I, unbowed, unbroken – I am standing still!
Only God knows where the path of life will yet lead me.
I do not even ask to know and do not need to see.
It is enough to know that I’m loved and not alone.
And with those truths I thankfully march into the unknown.
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found….
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found
Standing still.
Narrator: For the rest of their lives, they take time to stand still and remember. They mourn, they cry… but they also laugh. Their faith tells them they will be reunited with their boys. Davey drives a short school bus, Beth takes care of sick babies, and they serve and give wherever possible. They travel, they have a rose garden, and, some evenings, they turn the music up loud and do their best impression of Pauls interpretive dance.
Reflecting on the landscape of this life of mine.
Peaks too high to conquer, streams too wide to cross,
Troughs too deep to walk through without incurring loss.
Yet here I am still standing tall despite the rough terrain
One like me survived the storms and walked through wind and rain.
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found
Standing still.
My wings are torn and tattered but I know I still can fly.
I may not soar unfettered, I may not rise too high.
Record it in the book of life and bind it with a seal
That I, unbowed, unbroken – I am standing still!
Only God knows where the path of life will yet lead me.
I do not even ask to know and do not need to see.
It is enough to know that I’m loved and not alone.
And with those truths I thankfully march into the unknown.
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found….
Still standing, I will fight the good fight!
Still searching for glimmers of light.
Feet still on the ground, I can still be found
Standing still.
Narrator: For the rest of their lives, they take time to stand still and remember. They mourn, they cry… but they also laugh. Their faith tells them they will be reunited with their boys. Davey drives a short school bus, Beth takes care of sick babies, and they serve and give wherever possible. They travel, they have a rose garden, and, some evenings, they turn the music up loud and do their best impression of Pauls interpretive dance.
