Sandy Bailey - Pass Me Not

From the COVID-19 lockdown I've been spending some time remembering songs that have influenced me as an artist and I've been drawing on their comfort. As a white passing, liberal, mixed race woman who was raised in a pentecostal church I have struggled with my identity, spirituality and personal beliefs for much of my life. This is one of the songs that has always resonated with me throughout my 39 years on earth, no matter which perspective I've come from, in my quest for my authentic truth. After learning the history behind this hymn I now understand why. This song was written by a woman named Frances J Crosby in 1868. She became blind at 6 weeks of age and was an activist who befriended many U.S. presidents and wrote thousands of prominent gospel hymns. This particular song was inspired after her visit to a prison in Manhattan when she heard an inmate call out "Good Lord, do not pass me by". In her time this hymn was widely criticized for straying from biblical text by pointing out that many who suffer are indeed passed by. Almost a century and a half later this story, this song, this human struggle, still feels as relevant as ever. "Heal my wounded broken spirit, save me with your grace." Much love to all of you.

[@frankiedearest]

Im always lifted up by your music. thank you.

[@joeokabayashi8669]

Thank you for adding the story of this song - my heart aches with pain and comfort all at once.

[@SandyBaileyMusic]

Agreed

[@susanwavada5884]

Lovely, Sandy! It reminds me that I miss The Bailey Family singing at Coventry Congregational Church.

[@aaronedberg4643]

YAASSSSS!!! LOVE IT

[@kathchang]

beautiful

[@kathchang]

aw cute kitten!

[@frankiedearest]

found an older song A Song Of Spring.lovely and timely.lol.