Lead Me Home

Today was the birthday of Hiromi's sister Chizu "Chee."  It was her 88th (I mistakenly thought it was her 90th earlier).  We had cake and ice cream and fresh strawberries in her hospice room to celebrate.  Each of us had a chance to talk to her, although she did not visibly respond.  

While we were visiting around her bed, someone mentioned how much they loved the song that Shane sang at Chee's husband's funeral.  "I hope he sings it again," someone said.  

"Would you like for me to sing it now?" Shane asked.   

"Sure."

So Shane pulled up the lyrics on his phone and started singing.  During the song Chee's daughter suddenly walked over and sat down beside her mother and touched her chest briefly.  Chee had just taken her last breath.  

"She's gone," Bev said after the song was finished.  We were all in awe of what we had just witnessed.  Shane had literally sung her home.  She died hearing a song that she loved.  

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Here are the words to the song:

Precious Lord, take my hand

Lead me on, let me stand.

I am tired; I am weak, I am worn.

Through the storm, through the night,

Lead me on to the Light.

Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.

When my way grows drear, precious Lord, linger near

When my light is almost gone, 

Hear my cry, hear my call,

Hold my feet lest I fall,  

Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.

When the darkness appears and the night draws near,

And the day is past and gone,

At the river I stand,

Guide my feet, hold my hand.

Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.

--Lyrics and Music by Thomas A. Dorsey