I saw this video this morning showing how Alpha Delta Phi fraternity at the University of Chicago responded to the protests of the Westboro Baptist Church
After viewing the video I could not help but think of this song, one of my favorite contemporary “faith” songs. I think the boys of Alpha Delta Phi are onto something.
I danced in the morning when the world was begun
I danced in the moon and the stars and the sun
I came down from heaven and I danced on the earth
At Bethlehem I had my birthI danced for the scribes and the Pharisees
But they would not dance, and they wouldn’t follow me
I danced for the fishermen, for James and John
They came with me and the dance went onI danced on the Sabbath and I cured the lame
The holy people said it was a shame
They ripped and they stripped and they hung me high
And left me there on a cross to dieI danced on a Friday when the sky turned black
It’s hard to dance with the devil on your back
They buried my body, and they thought I’d gone
But I am the dance, and I still go onThey cut me down and I leapt up high
I am the life that will never, never die
I’ll live in you if you’ll live in me
I am the Lord of the dance, said heChorus (repeated after each verse):
Dance then, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I’ll lead you all, wherever you may be
And I’ll lead you all in the dance, said he
(emphasis mine)
Sydney Carter, Lord of the Dance, 1963
(sung to the old Shaker tune Simple Gifts [The theme of this song is also used by Aaron Copeland in Appalachian Spring])
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That’s a wrap.
Sending HUGS (and your favorite dance music) to all!



