Periodically some friends and I make up a bunch of bag lunches (sandwich, cookie, apple, etc.) and go out on the streets of DC and feed homeless people. One December, I was feeding folks at Lafayette Park across from the White House and had run out of food; I only had apple cider left. I walked up to a woman bundled up in coats and rags, and she was standing facing the setting sun. I offered her some cider and when she turned to me, there were tears in her eyes. She accepted a cup and we stood together, silent, and we watched the sun set. This moment of quiet freedom inspired me to write a song called Seeds of Change. Enjoy. Listen the the partial mp3 on the sounds page.

I walked the streets a witness with a panoramic view
I sought the golden goose and on the way relinquished peace
I thought that freedom only came to a privileged few
And never knew that it was free til I saw a kindred's face

It was the time to tend the land
It was the time to seed my garden
Was the time to cry, "All clear,"
And make the change I used to fear

Her almond eyes told tales of homeless, hopeless times
A refugee without a name she claimed the earth as home
Her past was never far behind like sounds of distant chimes
Each dawn she honored her survival by greeting it alone
Chorus

 

I saw her first while feeding those less fortunate
I gave her juice and silence understanding without words
As we shared the cider together we drank the sunset
And from then on the voice of past misgivings went unheard

And on that night I staked my freedom
I claimed my independence day
I hung my wishes on the seventh star
And I smiled and walked away

Chorus