The Big Untidy Magazine

THE SONG HAS A WHOLE LOT OF SOUL

A rowing boat on a stormy sea

In the night

The long dark night

I’m moving towards distant harbour lights.

 

A new sun at the break of dawn

A calmer sky

Though the sea is rough

I will make it

I will keep on trying.

 

That is how I feel

When I hear that voice

Fill the room

Singing loud and proud

How she got over

How she got through.

 

Such a voice

Such a courageous voice

That went straight to my heart

Straight to my heart.

 

She sang

“In The Upper Room With Jesus “

“A Prayer Changes Things”

“God Will Wipe All Tears Away”

It makes this doubting soul believe.

 

I say

“Just A Closer Walk With Thee”

Grant it Jesus This my plea.

 

A rowing boat on a stormy sea

In the night

The lonely night

I will keep rowing

Because I know I’m moving

Closer to harbour lights.

 

Mahalia Jackson sings with a whole lot of soul

I feel reassurance

I can see calmer skies.

 

- Frank Bangay

Summer 2006

Written after listening to Mahalia Jackson for the first time. There are many fine women singers in Afro American Gospel Music. Mahalia Jackson was my introduction,

In one particular song “ A Prayer Changes Things”. she sang about being out on stormy raging seas. Being sick and hungry and Jesus rescuing her. Testifying as to how a prayer changes things. This sentiment inspired a drawing, poem, and a painting. And as such has had an effect on my life.