Love Grows
"A Body of Work" no. 12 -- Singing Around the Fire
Hi! Welcome to “A Body of Work.” It’s the occasional Tuesday space here on “Living in a Body” where I dig deep into Hal history and pull out a musical gem. Be sure to click the links below to hear the song “Love Grows.” I’m posting two versions. (circa 2020 and 2023) Please enjoy and share this post with a friend. Thank you!
Love Grows
On Saturday night, I had the opportunity to sit around a bonfire for a community song circle. It was such a treat. It happened at Fred Fuller Park as the closing event of the Reeds and Roots Skillshare. With a three quarter moon shining in the southwest, the song leaders were teaching singable songs celebrating earth, peace, moon and community. There were guitars, a drum, a ukulele, and a couple tongue drums gathered around that fire. In the low light, I could barely recognize the individuals faces, but the fire's glow transformed that group into a timeless gathering of human voices. It was such a beautiful night in Ohio.
The song circle was happening just a block and a half away from my home. After a cold shower, I put on a flannel shirt and rode my scooter down South Chestnut Street to the park. It didn't take long to find the group nestled around the fire by the main stage. When I arrived, I was warmly greeted with several voices calling out "Hal Walker!" It felt good to be recognized. At least one person vocally referred to me as a "legend." I guess that's what happens when chronic illness forces you into the hidden recesses of a darkened bedroom. I’ve reached legendary status. It felt like a big deal to be venturing away from my bed for a social evening with normal people. The warm welcome calmed my nerves.
After sitting quietly and listening to a few songs, I offered to share one of my own. Mallory handed me her guitar and I took it into my arms like an old friend. It had been months since I’d played the guitar and even longer since I’d sung a song. I put my soft fingers on those steel strings and I sang “Love Grows.” Then line by line, I taught it to the group. After a couple run throughs, we were singing quite nicely in harmony. “Love Grows” is about the power of a smile shared between two people.
Love grows right now when I smile with you
Our hearts expand in the light of this room
These eyes are widening eyes and I know
This voice defines the cries of my soul
My heart is truly beginning to bloom.
My heart is truly beginning to bloom.
Let’s open the windows and open the doors
and notice this moment like never before
We’ll break through the barriers and reach out a hand
and offer a peace to a stranger or friendWe’ll raise the whole building and rise up above
From the part of us that feels and knows how to love
And we’ll sing of the goodness and speak of the truth
And the joy in our hearts will enlighten this roomNo matter your struggle, no matter your pain
There’s a love right now that’s bringing on a change
So open your eyes and take in the view
Cause right now I’m smiling with you
Right now I’m smiling, right now I’m smiling
Right now I’m smiling with you.
I wrote this song years ago for the “ingathering” service in September at my church. On that Sunday morning, I first sang it through once by myself from the front of the room. Then for each repetition, additional voices stepped forward to join me. By the end of the performance, the adult choir, the children's choir, the folk orchestra and even a couple members of the bell choir were singing and playing along with me. That performance of “Love Grows” is one of the many memorable moments in my 25 years of music making at the UU Church of Kent.
For a long time, the song was just a five line chorus, but eventually, I added a verse. I really love singing the verse. It feels so good coming out of my mouth. Unfortunately, on Saturday night, I couldn’t remember the words. I was humbled and disappointed. I attempted it twice but I stumbled both times half way through. My memory just wasn't kicking in. Fortunately, it was a loving and forgiving group around that fire. When my words dropped off, they howled at the moon to show their support.
Singing Love Grows on Saturday night around the fire inspired me to bring back another episode of "A Body of Work.” I’m glad to feature this song. Thanks for being here. I hope you enjoy it and I encourage you to sing along.
2023 with piano —
2020 with guitar —
Weeping at the beauty of this song, Hal! Thank you. What a gift you are.
Hi am I right this is the space where we get to share from the past too or is that a different space.
Your so blessed to not be full time housebound!!