I composed this song as a graduation present (in 2002) for a voice student of mine named Caleb Sjogren, an outstanding young man who I admired not only for his considerable talents but also for his kind heart and giving spirit. The song is meant to be sung on those occasions in life (such as graduation) when we look back on and wonder how we have lived our life. (This performance is actually from my 2011 faculty recital.) The photo is of Caleb holding his son.
“Did I make a difference? Did I share some light? Did I bring some comfort – in somebody’s night?
Did I plant some flowers? Did I sow some seeds? Did I help a stranger? Did I see another’s need?
Did I rise rejoicing, eager for the day – mindful of the blessings God has sent my way?
Mindful of my calling, ready for the race? Did I find my strength in God’s abundant love and grace?
Did I run with courage? Did I give my all? In the heat of battle, did I heed the call?
Did I bear my burdens patiently in peace? In my darkest sorrow, did my faith and trust increase?
Did I love my neighbor as my Lord commands? Were there deeds of kindness in my heart and hands?
And with those who hate me, did I build a bridge? And when someone wronged me, was I ready
to forgive?
If I made a difference, if I shared some light- if I brought some comfort in somebody’s night –
If I planted flowers, if I sowed some seeds, it was not my doing. It was Jesus’s love in me.”