Several years back a co-worker died after battling cancer. She was young with children at home. But she knew her death was coming so she was able to plan her funeral and last wishes to the ‘T’. She had a beautiful memorial and so many loved ones came to pay their respects to her and her family. It was incredible. But what I wasn’t expecting was when the pastor stood up to say that she had dedicated a song to us, her co-workers.  She hoped the words of the song would resonate in our hearts. It was Lee Ann Womak’s ‘I Hope You Dance’.

When I find myself telling my children over and over, “Not now…” – I think of this song. When I don’t want to do what it takes to get ready for an outing with my family – I think of this song. When I just about pass up an opportunity to watch my boys play – I think of this song. I even think of this song when I start to go down the “easy road”.

I want to live my life to the fullest. I want to forgive easily.  I want to have a good time and make lots of memories. I want to laugh until I cry. I want to wrap myself around my husband until he makes me too hot. I want to hold my children until they instinctively fall asleep in my arms. And I want to dance.

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances but they’re worth taking
Lovin’ might be a mistake but it’s worth making

Don’t let some hell-bent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to selling out reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
(full lyrics to I Hope You Dance)

Photo credit