Words and melodies have, for the most part, eluded me over the past 6 weeks. The best I could muster was an adaptation of Maggie Rogers’ “Give A Little” for bells, which I used in my livestream classes recently, but otherwise…nothing.
And then last Friday, our governor announced that all schools in Illinois are closed for the remainder of the school year. Even though I was 100% expecting this news, it hit me hard. I still haven’t told my kids, who are only 4 and 6…young enough to be content at home, but old enough to love and miss their school, teachers, and friends. Needless to say, the rollercoaster my emotions have been on plunged downward.
That night, I sat down with my guitar, and all these lyrics came pouring out, along with a melody to go with them. “It’s Okay Not To Be Okay” was the result, and I want to share it with you if you need a reminder of this message as much as I do.
Is your heart jumpin’ around?
Well, that’s okay, mine is, too
Mine is, too
Are the tears flowin’ down?
Well, that’s okay, mine are, too
Mine are, too
It’s okay not to feel okay
You absolutely, definitely don’t have to say:
“I’m fine, doing good, stayin’ positive”
Because we’re all re-learning how to live
In this crazy world, where nothing is the same
It’s okay not to be okay
Is your stomach in a knot?
Well, that’s okay, mine is, too
Mine is, too
Is your head in a fog?
Well, that’s okay, mine is, too
Mine is, too
CHORUS
We can’t play by the rules
Because we’re makin’ ‘em up as we go
Day by day, minute by minute
Together, we’re all in it
Are you missing someone?
Well, that’s okay, I am, too
I am, too
Are you ready for change?
Well, that’s okay, I am, too
I am, too
CHORUS
As is the case with all the songs in my collection right now, you are more than welcome to use this song in your telehealth sessions, livestream classes, recordings, or however else you are connecting with people. Download the lyrics and chords right here.
