Beyond the Clouds

This devotional song has two main inspirations. First, the Hindu concept of space or ether as one of the five fundamentals elements or forces in life. Many mantras are classified as being aligned with one of the five elements: earth, water, fire, wind and space. The concept of the space element is a bit difficult to personify as a deity but works well as a part of nature.

Secondly, I was inspired by the well-known Buddhist mantra “Gate gate paragate, parasum gate bodhi svaha.” This is generally translated as “Gone, gone; gone wholly beyond.” Moving beyond the clouds was the closest metaphor I could come up with to have a sense of moving beyond the troubles or dualities of earthly life. Lyrics and music by Kathleen Karlsen.

FULL ARTICLE AND MUSIC VIDEO
Learn more about the symbolism of clouds and the ether or space element in the article featuring a music video of this song: Beyond the Clouds. 

Blessing for the Road 

This is a simple prayer and devotional song inspired by a traditional Irish blessing. The song was written for a friend who was traveling extensively. Blessings were spoken at births, weddings, farewells, and funerals, and offered in times of travel, hardship, and celebration. They served as spiritual tools—spoken poetry that encapsulated hope, love, and the belief that life is a journey best walked with divine companionship. Lyrics and music by Kathleen Karlsen.

May you find what you seek
May your heart be at peace
May your dreams never end
May the road be your friend
May you love, may you love, may you love

May the stars all align
May the sun always shine
May your soul be your guide
May God walk by your side
May you love, may you love, may you love

FULL ARTICLE AND MUSIC VIDEO
Learn more about Irish blessings and the patron saint of travel in the article featuring the music video for Blessing for the Road. 

Breathe Through Me

Breath, fire & water… music for universal spirituality. God is associated with the breath, fire and the wind in many traditions. The Holy Spirit in Christianity is an undifferentiated power of God. The Holy Spirit is the focus of many devotional songs in the Western or Judeo Christian tradition.

The Western Holy Spirit is akin to Shiva, third person of the Hindu Trinity. The idea that God breathes life into animate form is also a common theme in many traditions. The Holy Spirit is also known as the Holy Ghost. There are seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord. Lyrics and music by Kathleen Karlsen.

FULL ARTICLE AND MUSIC VIDEO
Learn more about sacred breath and related spiritual traditions in the article Sacred Breath. Includes the music video of the song “Breathe Through Me.”

May I Sing of Thee?

After leading an evening of singing at a sacred music event a few years back, I was accused of cultural appropriation by one of the attendees. The kirtan (a Sanskrit word for singing mantras in a group) had included Hindu, Buddhist and Christian traditions. I was told that I needed permission and initiation from a guru or monk to be qualified to sing in an Eastern tradition.

I took the concern seriously and pondered my own cultural heritage and Celtic roots. I studied the life and writings of Saint Patrick, appreciating his integration of God in nature as well as Christian ideals. In addition, I was inspired by the idea that I could ask God directly for permission to sing His praises. This is the origin of my musical response to the cultural appropriation accusation and the birth of the song, “May I Sing of Thee?”

FULL ARTICLE AND MUSIC VIDEO
Learn more about Saint Patrick and “May I Sing of Thee” in the article called Honoring Saint Patrick.

Shine Your Light

A universal prayer for Light in every situation in life. Perfect for meditation, listening or background music throughout your day. Incorporates the idea of constant prayer for every circumstance, invoking the Light of God for every need: healing, harmony, patience, challenges. Includes uplifting images and arrangement. May Light shine on you always!

Shine Your Light Lyrics
When I sleep, when I wake: Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light!
All I do, all I say: Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light!
As I go through my day: Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light!
On my path, on my way: Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light!

Every thought, every care, Let this be my every prayer:
Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light everywhere! Shine Your Light!
Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light!

When I speak, when I pray: Shine Your light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your light!
When I’m strong, when I stray: Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light!
Birth and death, joy and pain: Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light!
This will be my refrain: Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light!

Every thought, every care, Let this be my every prayer:
Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light! Shine Your Light everywhere!
Shine Your light! Shine Your Light!
Shine Your light! Shine Your light… (repeat)

FULL ARTICLE AND MUSIC VIDEO
Learn more about the practice of constant prayer in world traditions in the article featuring a music video of this song: Spiritual Growth through Prayer.