Lift the Spirit, Catch the Falling
From 1999 through 2004, I was the Chief Medical Officer of Baltimore Medical System, Inc (BMS). The clinical and administrative teams at that federally qualified health center are among the most mission-driven and hardworking professionals with whom I have ever had the privilege of serving. Inspired by their efforts, I composed a song in mid-2001 to highlight the excellent care provided and describe a vision of how like-minded people and organizations could change the world. I planned to debut the piece at the company’s annual All-Staff meeting that November.
Unfortunately, the celebration of the BMS staff I intended turned into a solemn dedication for Ian J. Gray. Ian was a key member of the BMS Board of Directors and among the thousands tragically killed on September 11, 2001. As described on the BMS website:
Ian’s personal mission was to ensure that basic health care was available and accessible to the medically underserved in Baltimore.
Ian’s vision is far from being realized in Baltimore and across the United States. We still have significant work to do.
Lift the Spirit, Catch the Falling
Words & Music by Michael S. Barr
Tell me why so many,
Still struggle and have no voice.
Tell me why is health care,
Still a privilege, not a choice.
Old and young,
The working poor.
New arrivals,
To our shores.
Scared and scarred,
From care neglect.
We take their hands,
And show respect.
Chorus
We dedicate our hearts.
We dedicate our minds.
Speaking up,
To end disparity.
Reaching out,
To create equality.
We lift the spirit,
Catch the falling.
Our mission is the
Highest calling.
We have a vision of
Another world.
Where health care reaches every,
Boy and girl.
Seniors don’t choose between
Food and medication.
Insurance covers exercise
And education.
Every child is chosen,
By a family that cares.
All homeless people have,
A place that’s theirs.
Tobacco, alcohol,
And drug abuse are gone.
And the war on HIV,
Is finally won.
We’re not there yet,
But we can get there soon.
‘Cause the power to
Change the world,
Is in this room.
Chorus
We dedicate our hearts.
We dedicate our minds.
Speaking up,
To end disparity.
Reaching out,
To create equality.
We lift the spirit,
Catch the falling.
Our mission is the
Highest calling.
Any color,
Any creed.
Any preference.
Any need.
All are welcome,
To our care.
This is our mission.
It’s why we’re here.
©2001 Michael S. Barr
MIDI Equipment/Software Used:
Cubase; Proteus 2000; Roland RS-9 Keyboard
One thought on “Lift the Spirit, Catch the Falling”
Hi Michael – who knew you create music as well as wellness — Miss you and your guidance. Lark