With school starting a week from today, you’d think I’d have “hello” songs on the brain. But yesterday, out of the blue, I was hit with the memory of a song from my high school years. Blessid Union of Souls was a popular band back then, and I listened to their self-titled album nonstop.

My favorite track was Peace and Love, and when it came to mind yesterday, I realized it would make a great “goodbye” song. I’m thinking “goodbye” in more of a long-term sense; perhaps I might sing it at a final music therapy session (prior to termination of service) or even a graduation ceremony.

May every star you wish upon
And every hope you’re hangin’ on come true
Out of everybody in the world
There’s no one who deserves it more than you
I hope you find
Everything you’ve been dreamin’ of
Only good things
No in betweens just
Peace and love

These words did not come easily
Still you know I had to write them down
You must know what you mean to me
I wish that you could always be around
I hope you find
Everything you are worthy of
I’m gonna miss you
But I only wish you
Peace and love

Peace and love
Tears of joy
Kindness of strangers
All of your roads
Paved in gold
By guardian angels
Wherever you may be in this world
My salutation says it all
May you always have enough
Peace and love

I let you go unselfishly
Cause everyone needs time to be alone
Well maybe time will bring you back
And if it does you’ll always have a home
I sign my name
No one to blame it on because
I’m on your side
No question of pride

Peace and love
Tears of joy
Kindness of strangers
All of your roads
Paved in gold
By guardian angels
Wherever you may be in this world
My salutation says it all
May you always have enough
Peace and Love

I use the chords provided here (incidentally, Ultimate Guitar is where I find almost all of the chords and tabs for cover songs I perform).  I’d love to hear how you might apply this song to your music therapy practice or otherwise.  Please share your thoughts in the comments!