Dreams and Visions (5:46) by Chris Bakriges & Cliff Aerie
[Click on the image to be linked to the music]
Reflection: “Dreams and Visions” is the title cut on our CD. Chris’ composition was inspired by Coretta Scott King, the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Coretta was a talented singer and gave up her career in the opera to work side by side with her husband. When Chris shared his composition with me, it inspired me to write lyrics about the struggle for justice and peace—a dream and vision for a brand-new day. The words about dreaming, daring and singing came together quickly. It was almost as if someone else (my Muse?) was dictating the words to me.
I’ve performed this song with many talented vocalists, each adding their own stylistic signature to the song. When performed, it never fails to inspire people in the audience or in the pew. The vocalist on this album is my very talented daughter Arianna who, I think, gives the best musical interpretation to the song. As you listen to the words note how the melodic line and lyrics are in sync, as if together they are telling a story that needs to be told, witnessed, embraced and acted out if we’re to bring about unity—a time and place when dreams and visions can be realized.
Personal Prayer: God of all times and places, of all creatures great and small, of the entire human family no matter what our differences. Help me to fully grasp that I am an instrument of your peace and reconciliation. Guide me as I seek to live your dream and vision, right now! Amen.
Lyrics: Dreams and Visions
Dream! Dream a world that’s just and fair. Free from hatred and fear. Safe without want or care. Love will be our guide—overcoming greed and pride. Unity—dreams and visions set us free.
Dare! Dare to lift your voices high. Speaking truth from your heart. Now is the time to start. Hope points to the way—visions of a brand new day. Unity—dreams and visions set us free.
Ah… visions and dreams. Ah… visions and dreams. Start now! Right now! Start now! Right now!
Sing! Sing a song to change the world. Sing it out in the night. Sing ‘til you get it right. Grace abides in you—ready to transform, make new. Unity—dreams and visions set us free.