by Lynn Maudlin, © Moonbird Music Co. 2001
All rights reserved
I am grieved and I am bitter
God has dealt harshly with me
Elimelech was no great husband
But he was good enough for me
This creeping blight has taken Mahlon
And Chilion was next to go
The girls got sick but they recovered
I have my health, but my spirit's low
How do I find the strength to go on?
How do I find the strength to live?
The girls are weak but they think I'm strong
But I've got nothing left to give
I can't get used to their religion
All these idols drive me mad
Orpah says it's not so different
I only know that I feel bad
I'll gather up my few possessions
And I'll return to Bethlehem
While I have strength enough to travel
Because a Hebrew woman's what I am -
God give me strength I need to go on
God give me strength for the journey
I must return to my homeland
Last night I dreamt of Bethlehem
God give me strength I need to go on
God give me strength for the journey
I must return to my homeland
Tonight I'll dream of Bethlehem