If you were able to stay for the full reception for Dolores’ Funeral, you were lucky to get a preview of the song/video that I made for Dolores. As a creative, I process my feelings and emotions through the act of creating. So of course, I had to write a song to Dolores.

After she passed, the lyrics began coming to me in waves and I finished it about a week later. I knew immediately that I wanted to use her heartbeat as the backbone of the song. 

When we were preparing to take her home, the nurses helped us create a recording that was stored in a stuffed animal, given to us as a keepsake to remember her by. That recording is what I used to begin writing this song.

Amidst all the planning and prep for the funeral, I was doubtful that I would be able to produce and finalize the song, let alone a video. Not only the time necessary, but I also had a sore throat that made it extremely hard for me to sing. But I asked Dolores for help, and just barely, we squeaked out a good enough performance to call it "good enough to ship". Perfection in imperfection.

That song is now available to you – found on all streaming platforms. 

Below is the video that was introduced at the reception. I of course had to make a few tweaks. It took me much longer to get those small things done because I was hit with the flu pretty hard this past week. Really, it was probably my body finally feeling the weight of everything and God telling me it’s time to rest. I’m glad to say I’ve finally recovered. 

If you want to listen to the song anywhere, it’s found on platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, or whatever you use. I believe you can use Spotify if you do not have any streaming plans purchased. It just has ads. Otherwise you can watch the video below. I'll put the lyrics below that. Thanks for listening!

Dolores

When I first heard your cry
It left my heart open wide
With hope inside
I thought we’d have time

You showed me the fight in you
I prayed that God make you new
With a new heart
And lungs too

But that was not His plan
No that was not your plan

Despite all the hurt we felt
With all of the stress we held
We found ourselves
Drawing closer as one

He called us to have faith to walk on water
We stepped into the storm in search of peace
Every single day we stood beside you
Prayed your healing be complete

Dolores you led us to His feet
You showed us gentle strength on broken wings
We begged and we prayed that you would stay
Sometimes in our faith we must be brave and 
Surrender what we seek
Surrender everything
Dolores

When life gets hard and hurts inside
I know my angels are right by my side
Your mom and I are so proud of you
Changing hearts like only you can do
One day we’ll see your smiling face
Hold you tight in eternal embrace
Until that day, we ask and pray, darling watch over us

Dolores, in my heart remain with me
Dolores, you showed such humble strength and peace

Dolores, every heartbeat was a grace
You taught us love that time cannot erase
We begged and we prayed you would stay
Sometimes in our faith we must be brave and 
Surrender what we seek
Surrender everything
Dolores