#29: A Gentle Soul Passes

For a gentle soul
In a brutal world


My dad, as expected, passed away a couple of days ago. He was surrounded by love and in complete peace.


My brothers and other family members and I have become close, which is a relief after I spent so many years kind of hiding my life from them. We’ve had great, hilarious conversations. Death brings life.


I wasn’t consciously thinking of my dad when I wrote this week’s song. I was actually thinking about what a warlike atmosphere has been created in public media, politics and religion.


Where does the gentle soul go to find comfort and peace? Is there even a home for peaceful hearted people?


Must I raise my hand?
Must I clench my fist?


My dad could be fierce if he wanted to but his was a gentle soul who served the people in his church. Fixing hot water heaters. Us babysitting all the kids in a family whose parent has to go far away for a medical treatment. Our house had an open door policy and everyone was welcome and cared for who walked through those doors.


This is a very quiet, very gentle song, piano, voice and some rich sounds to enforce the flow of the music. I hope it brings you a moment of peace and quiet and healing.


Gentle Soul
©2025 by Steve Schalchlin




For a gentle soul

In a brutal world

I must change they say

Or I won’t survive


It’s the angry voice

And the squeaky wheel

Who get things done

Who will stay alive


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul


But what kind of life

Do I have to live

If I have to beat

Other people down


Must I raise my hand

Must I clench my fist

Are there peaceful streams

In a stormy town


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul




But if I withdraw

From a wounded world

Does it only prove

What they’re telling me


If I turn away

If I step aside

Does the chaos reign

Does the anger hide


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul


Can we find no home

For a gentle soul

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/track/0jgsqsve6fQt9I0ydLsklS?si=b285bc1e32e340ba


Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/gentle-soul-feat-bonus-round-band-single/1805171784


YouTube Music:
https://youtu.be/D8N5PmM-2og?si=9JcbuJvu8-QRJHMi