From the recording Lightened By Love - Download
6. Lightened By Love (2:33) (Lorrie Newman Keating (BMI)); Written 1974/©2011 Lorrie Marie Newman Keating)
Growing up isn’t always easy. My ‘growing up’ was more difficult than most due to a highly dysfunctional family and circumstances beyond a then-teenager’s control. During one of the more difficult episodes in high school, I was fortunate to have a student teacher who took the time to listen and offer me very wise counsel. The advice was more in-depth than the lyrics reflect, and I replayed it in my head many times over the years since then. I wrote this song in 1974 - a high school junior - as a heartfelt thank-you to this young teacher who was there for me. Contrary to the last verse, I never did get to see him again after he finished his student teaching. I wish I had, because ten years out would have shown him a very confident woman from that confused young girl.
Lyrics
The problems were spinning around in my head and I couldn't think which way to go
So I asked you to help me and help me you did and this is my gift in return
I wish you a lifetime of happiness and guidance from God up above
May your future bring nothing but wealth and success
And your burdens be lightened by love
Now a writer I never have professed to be, but it’s something I just had to do
Since you told me to never fear being myself and do what I want to do
You said not to worry what people think of the crazy and strange things I do
I can sum it all up in some words not my own,
“Unto thine own self be true.”
I honestly hope that in 10 years or so, our paths may cross once again
Then we’ll see what changes the long years have brought
These wishes I give you ‘til then
I wish you a lifetime of happiness and guidance from God up above
May your future bring nothing but wealth and success
And your burdens be lightened by love