“AMEN SONGS”: Gratitude (Earth, Wind & Fire)
November 27, 2024
Cantor Eyal Bitton highlights a song that connects with this year’s Congregation Neveh Shalom theme, “Amen – Be a Blessing.”
Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Gratitude” beautifully aligns with this week’s dual focus on Parashat Toldot and the spirit of Thanksgiving. The song’s exuberant expression of thankfulness is a natural fit for CNS’ theme of the year, “Amen – Be a Blessing,” as it reminds us that gratitude is at the heart of recognizing and sharing blessings. With lines like, “Gratitude, you’ve got to pay it back,” the song inspires us to actively pass on the blessings we receive.
In Toldot, we witness the struggles and blessings within Isaac’s family. The narrative of Jacob and Esau’s birthright and blessings highlights the complexities of family relationships and the transformative power of gratitude. When we approach life with a thankful heart, as the song encourages, we are better equipped to create harmony and share abundance—themes central to both the parasha and the Thanksgiving holiday. “Gratitude” calls us to reflect on the blessings in our lives and use them as a source of generosity and connection.
(Video below the lyrics.)
Gratitude
Wanna thank you
Freedom in stride, love, peace of mind
We just wanna give gratitude
Got plenty love we wanna give to you
With good music and we’re tryin’ to say
That the Good Lord’s gonna make a way
Open up your heart, let your body find,
Freedom in your stride, love, peace of mind
One more time and we got to say
That the Good Lord gonna make a way.
