Iris DeMent
The shores of Jordan (Iris DeMent)


I looked up into heaven, I thought I'd solve life's mysteries
I observed the constellations for a clue to my destiny
but the rhyme of life confounds me,
things will be as things will be
so I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me

I traveled to a prison, saw my share of shattered dreams
Were the tables slightly tilted?
I could be bound, they could be free
but I believe no tear goes wasted and so I fell there on my knees
and vowed I'd dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carried me

I'm gonna let my feet go dancing to my very favourite songs
'cause I know the time for leaving is bound to come before too long
and there ain't no way of me knowing how tomorrow's gonna be
so I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me

I saw a weary traveler heading down a dusty road
I said "Friend, please may I help you,
it seems you haul a heavy load"
and he said "Though my burden's heavy,
in my heart I'm travelling light
so I can cross old river Jordan when I'm called to the other side"

I'm gonna let my feet go dancing to my very favourite songs
'cause I know the time for leaving is bound to come before too long
and there ain't no way of me knowing how tomorrow's gonna be
so I'll just dance the shores of Jordan 'til the angels carry me

(c) 1993 Songs of Iris ASCAP