I've been lucky enough to have known a few of those people who run the world. Not the politicians nor the pundits, but the ones who bake birthday cakes, who attend community meetings, and make soup for the old man down the hall. For one reason or another, they're usually women. This is their hymn.

Lyrics

Hymn for Those

for those who step up when no one can find their feet
who cut off their hair and give up their seat
for those who leave gifts without ringing the bell
I know they are wishing me well

for those who leave plastic flowers until spring
without them the stones wouldn’t mean anything
they stand and remember when I forget
someone has to show some regret

I’ve drunk your wine and eaten your bread
and have occasionally slept in your bed
it’s too late to say but thanks anyway
it’s too late to say but thanks

for those who listen when there’s nothing to say
they know that I need to be heard from that way
and try to be gentle with my little poses
and drive me home when the bar closes

I’ve drunk your wine and eaten your bread
and have occasionally slept in your bed
it’s too late to say but thanks anyway
it’s too late to say but thanks

bridge (piano solo)

for those who can step outside of their skin
and take the trouble to let me in
we’re saved by the small gestures of beauty
the puddles that lead to the sea

chorus 3X