Singing the Living Tradition ‎#16

16. 'Tis a gift to Be Simple

‘Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free
‘tis a gift to come down where we ought to be,
and when we find ourselves in the place just right,
‘twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gained,
to bow and to bend we shan’t be ashamed.
To turn, turn will be our delight,
'till by turning, turning we come ’round right.

Text Information

• First Line: 'Tis a gift to be simple
• Title: 'Tis a gift to Be Simple
• Author: Joseph Bracket, 18th cent.
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Transcending Mystery and Wonder: The Celebration of Life; Goodness; Serenity

Tune Information

• Name: SIMPLE GIFTS
• Meter: Irregular with refrain
• Key: F Major or modal
• Source: American Shaker tune