I wrote the lyrics from my first hand experience, but thought it best to let Dave take a crack at the music. Dave did all the guitars except a single 6 string on the verses only. Jeff did vocals, bass and drums.
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Story behind the song
At some point Alzheimer patience lose track of things that happened in the past. While we’re all taught to tell the truth they experience the searing pain of lose all over again and then forget two hours later, only to be reminded again. At some point in the Alzheimer progression you can redirect, but the truth is that it’s kinder NOT to keep telling the patient of their life’s most painful loses over and over again in the hope that they will remember once and for all. You need to realize that painful truth is probably not what they need, but a bit of gentle kindness. I experienced this lesson first hand and the lyrics are all drawn from first hand experiences. Luckily, I learned fairly quickly.
Lyrics
The kindness
Memories just washed away
Like sand on life’s seashore
Maybe God’s tender mercies
Fading away the pain
And I have to stay
Only stating the truth - Dad - Mom passed away a long time ago
He trembles and he cries
What are we to do ?
He grieves all over again
My love and your mother
Now that she is gone?
Living that tearing moment all over again
Dad - Mom passed away a long time ago
A tender kindness
Not to remind him that he’s now alone
I don’t have heart not to lie
How many times I’ve been told
The truth is as precious as gold
But maybe a bit of mercy too
I tear up as I say Dad She’ll be here soon
I know the truth
And it’s best I keep it
Honoring my Father and mother (Exodus 20:2)
He doesn’t need to know
That I sold his car
As long as he thinks he still has the keys
I tear up as I say Dad You’ll be home soon
