I think you known I’m not afraid to speak out if I see any failings or injustices. It’s just in my nature. But I should also admit that my recent postings have been quite gently-themed. I do get annoyed by stuff and rant about it but always fear that too many highly-opinionated postings will categorise me as a narrow-minded reactionary. So I’ve tuned back on the political commentary of late. But one news item has landed recently which has troubled me enormously; the death of George Floyd. It was an awful, awful situation. And it has generated some extreme commentary, not all of it helpful.
I thought I ought to add some comments of my own but rather than get too dogmatic I figured it might be appropriate to try and express my thoughts by re-working some original lyrics like I did with some old hymns recently. Not sure it’s to everyone’s taste but it doesn’t matter. Here’s how I would express my thoughts by re-working the words to a great song which seems so appropriate, original first…
Bridge over Troubled Water
Words by the great Simon & Garfunkel
When you’re weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all, all
I’m on your side, oh, when times get rough
And friends just can’t be found
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
When you’re down and out
When you’re on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I’ll take your part, oh, when darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Sail on silver girl
Sail on by…
Words by Pasta Paulie
When someone says, I can’t breathe
Maybe you should listen, and feel relieved
That you thought no! Now I need to change.
As black lives do matter.
Like a bridge over trouble waters
You have to shatter
Those In-bred racist prejudicies.
You will be so proud
To shed those beliefs
And become a real man
Out on the street.
When you realise
We are behind you
We will help you oh when you feel blue
And hate is all around,
Like a bridge over troubled waters
We will keep you sound
Like a bridge over trouble waters
You will be found
As a decent man
My oh my.
Ok I never professed to be a Bernie Taupin. But it kinda represents where I’m coming from.
pp
Pasta Paulie 