OUR SMALL TOWN IN HEAVEN
Seems like only yesterday we were all so young,
a whole life ahead of us, to live, learn and become.
Life changes in the blink of an eye
what we once knew is no more, leaving us to ask why?
Why do we leave? Where do we go?
Death is life's great mystery, will we truly ever know?
Maybe our people are on the other side,
in our small town in Heaven, awaiting the next to arrive.
Where past hurts and regrets all fall away,
where they celebrate their lives and reminisce about the good old days.
Cab drivers, volunteers, town gossips and mayors,
store owners, log builder, youth and elders are there.
Carpenters and contractors, and fur babies too,
the list grows long though we wish it wasn't true.
What wisdom would they share from where they are now?
Maybe be kinder to each other and be your own best friend,
that money, stuff and titles mean nothing in the end.
Count your blessings no matter how small,
share your abundance, gifts and wisdom with all.
Find peace, find joy, and know your soul,
you're never alone and are stronger than you know.
Our small town on Earth will never be the same,
your presence is missed and we'll forever speak your name.
We are loving each other like never before,
as broken hearts mend, and walls become doors.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2016 ©
GO TO SHOP TO PURCHASE A PRINT
OUR BIG WORLD IN HEAVEN
Seems like only yesterday we were all so young,
with a whole life ahead of us, to live, learn and become.
Life changes in the blink of an eye,
what we once knew is no more, leaving us to ask why?
Why do we leave? Where do we go?
Death is life's great mystery, will we truly ever know?
Maybe all the souls are on the other side,
in our big world in Heaven, awaiting the next to arrive.
Where past hurts and regrets all fall away,
where they celebrate their lives and reminisce about the good old days.
Where skin color and status doesn't exist,
where everyone is equal, which to humans seems a myth.
The homeless, the hungry, Chiefs, Queens and Mayors,
skeptics and mystics, lovers and haters are there.
All ages, all religions, winged ones and four leggeds too,
the list grows long though we wish it wasn't true.
What wisdom would they share from where they are now?
Maybe be kinder to each other and be your own best friend,
that money, power and titles mean nothing in the end.
Who owns the most stuff and has the biggest house doesn't win,
all that matters is how you loved and what you learned from your sins.
Count your blessings no matter how small,
share your abundance, gifts and love with all.
Find peace, find joy, and know your soul,
you're never alone and are stronger than you know.
Our big world on Earth will never be the same,
your presence is missed and we'll forever speak your name.
We are loving each other like never before,
as broken hearts mend, and walls become doors.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2020 ©
(the year the pandemic changed us forever)
GO TO SHOP TO PURCHASE A PRINT
THE JOURNEY
Out of the shadows of fear and pain
into the warm, soft light of peace within.
A journey, a path our souls chose to walk on this Earth
where opportunities are disguised as challenges
and uncertainties can lead us to unwavering faith.
Aware of the road we have walked so far
with no knowledge of what lies before us.
Sitting quietly at the crossroads
asking for guidance from the Great Mystery.
A light appears in the distance as the fog slowly lifts
there's no wrong way to travel as all paths lead home.
To choose from a place of fear and shame; the past...
or from a place of strength and courage; the unknown...
to cry a tear of grief or one of joy,
the choice is our own.
Written by Barb Cote
October 2008 ©
MOON SONG
When I feel small and I’m not sure why
I’m reminded to stare up into the night sky
To breathe in your beauty and feminine power
my heart opens wide with the grace of a flower
I drink in your wisdom and hear your song
making all right what I thought was all wrong.
Synching with your cycles keeps me living in the flow
my human side aligning more closely with my soul
As you move past full I release another layer
making room for more good, knowing you hear my prayers
The day you are in darkness, to human eyes unseen
I pray for world peace, for all to live free
You reach full once again, there’s nothing left to hide
open and raw, I finally feel alive.
It’s a wonder this universe and its vast enormity
you are the moon, and I’m just me
Sing to me Grandmother, your wise moon song
help me remember as I sing along
No longer alone I’m feeling part of the sum
my soul is on fire, I knew this time would come.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2013 ©
IDLE NO MORE
It's a time of celebration, if we can see it that way
this awakening of souls who've been waiting to play
The songs and stirrings from deep within
no longer imprisoned as they once had been
Truths surfacing and opening wounds
healing in cycles, like those of the moon
Strength of a culture, despite what's been done
smoking a pipe in place of a gun
It's a peaceful stand that is taking place
to wake the people caught up in the race
Like sheep being led by the big bad wolf
numbed to the point of becoming aloof
Understanding only what they've been told
that true wealth comes in the form of gold
We have no time for racial discrimination
As the truth is revealed we can stand as one Nation
Division is happening in a very good way
not by color or creed, but by what our hearts say
Forgiveness will come one person at a time
for those who seek wealth and are blind to the signs
Prophecies fulfilled as our souls have always known
now teaching our youth what we've been shown
Ancestors close by watching our actions
a collective stand with no distractions
Power to the peaceful ones taking this stand
for the next generations and our Mother, the land
Drums now beating from shore to shore
The circle is strong and we are Idle No More
Written by Barb Cote
January 2013 ©
SPIRIT OF COBALT
She wandered the streets of this small town as a girl,
only hindsight would reveal it as the rarest of pearls…
Thirty years have passed since she left for the Arctic,
her return visits home are emotionally cathartic.
Memories surface with each familiar face,
a story is ingrained in every single place…
At the top of Cobalt stairs with a tear in her eye,
she realizes this town gave her wings to fly.
History of silver, speaks through murals in the streets,
a common thread that bonds us, that just can’t be beat…
Legend says Fred LaRose threw a hammer at a fox,
next thing he saw was silver gleaming from the rocks.
So the frenzy began, many came from far away,
it’s because of this, we’re all connected today…
The headframe and the train station are significant sights,
the Fraser was the place to find the action every night.
Our streets are named Pyrite, Ruby and Dunning,
a walk to Sass Lake in the fall time is stunning…
Bedrock and wilderness and the Cobalt song,
around the campfire we sat, all singin’ along.
A drive to ragged shoots was simply the best,
she sees clearly now, she’s been incredibly blessed…
The Strand Theatre’s still kickin, it’s called Classic now,
oldest building remains standing, and that deserves a bow.
Coming back is easy, it’s the leaving that’s rough,
She is a Cobalt girl, but this day she’s not so tough…
She walks proudly in the world and speaks highly of this place,
Spirit of Cobalt always with her, like a constant embrace.
Written by Barb Cote
March 2012 ©
TRADITION
Twin otter on floats, loaded up, here we go
three generations, food and gear in tow
this island in Canada's Arctic comes to life each fall
family gathers for the traditional hunt, one and all
Colored leaves cover the ground
full moon light shines all around
feels like we haven't been here for so long
we're always welcomed back by the swans and their song....
Geese are flying south in full force
Moose on the mainland, in rut of course
a few come forward to sacrifice their life
to ensure we don't experience a year of strife
but rather abundance, we are blessed yet again
a celebration of life, for us and for them
Snow covers the mountains, there's a chill in the air
scales are balanced, everything is kept fair.....
The cycle of life is a delicate thing
time on the land makes our hearts sing
Planet of love, the first star out each night
it's reflection on the lake is a powerful sight
Rainbows and eagles speak of prophecy
all is honored here, earth, wind, rocks & trees
Our lives can resemble heaven or hell
but in this sacred place, all is perfectly well.
Mahsi
Written by Barb Cote
September 2010 ©
WALK WITH ME
Every day is paradise in the Pacific Northwest
she walks and skips through the majestic rain forest
on an island called Lummi where the land is respected
and cared for by the people as if it wer expected
She gazes to the sky through the giant cedars,
knowing if they were human, they’d make powerful leaders
Each branch an extension of its source
all working together with no trace of force
Growing with the seasons year after year
living in the moment, never knowing fear
She apologizes for the humans and their blatant abuse
and asks for forgiveness for our choosing to misuse
for money and power and who can get the most
a result of our egos, and hearts that have closed
She expresses her love as she continues on her way
breathing in the beauty of yet another day
Carpets of moss cover tree trunks and rocks
Mother Earth’s version of a warm pair of socks
Ferns and dry cedar make up the floor
the smell of dampness in the earth leaves her wanting more
She will return again tomorrow to this magical place
she thanks the island people for protecting sacred space
Written by Barb Cote
February 2012 ©
THREE DAY
(dedicated with love and gratitude to the McDonald clan)
Between the Franklins and the Mackenzies
there lies a sacred space.
An island on a lake, the most beautiful place.
Where my McDonald family comes year after year,
to live on the land in their hearts they hold dear.
It is a plentiful land which provides every season,
the Creator does nothing without having a reason.
It is a gift, this land, his creation,
where the traditions are passed on to the next generation.
Spirits linger above of the souls who have passed,
watching over their loved ones knowing their teachings will last.
Offerings are made and the cycle goes on,
until the next fall......another year has gone.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2006 ©
TEN MILE ISLAND
(dedicated with love and many thanks to the Hodgson clan)
There is a place in the wilderness called Ten Mile Island
it looks over the Mackenzie, the shores covered in sand.
There's a welcome feeling in the air when you're here
and you never have to worry there's always a cheer!
It's a gathering place for family and friends
where the fun, love and laughter never seems to end.
It belongs to the people of the Hodgson clan,
but everyone's welcome, child, woman and man.
There's singing in the air, and God's playing a tune
around the fire we sit under the stars and the moon.
There's a place in the wilderness on the land called Sahtu
where we come to escape, where you can just be you.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2005 ©
EAGLE SPIRIT
I call on you now great winged one
to help me soar above the mundane
lend me your medicine, your wisdom and sight
so I may observe my path
from a higher perspective
I see my fears settling on your sturdy wings
being offered gently to Creator
for purification and transformation
raining back down on me
in the form of new hope and faith
of great things to come
Written by Barb Cote
August 2009 ©
OUT OF THE ECLIPSES
Out of the eclipses
she emerges weary yet strong.
Left reeling from the preordained events
strategically placed for her soul's progression.
She wonders if it ever gets easier
at the same time knowing she is the only one
with the power to change her actions, her reactions.
She learns to use this energy
this gift from Grandmother Moon
to evolve, to emerge
from the inner to the outer her.
To find her power, her love, her purpose
understanding as eclipse time begins, chaos will reign.
She must stay grounded
while seeking higher perspective
until this energy passes
and all is calm again....
yet forever changed.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2008 ©
YELAPA
There's a pretty little place in a bay on the sea,
a small village in Mexico everyone should see.
The second you arrive there, it feels like home,
life moves at its own pace, everyone's free to roam.
You arrive by boat, there are no roads to drive,
the energy here makes you feel so alive!
On the journey over, along the water trails
you may see dolphins, stingrays and whales.
One thing's for sure, you won't be sorry you came,
there's even a chance, you'll never be the same.
Written by Barb Cote
March 2007 ©
IT'S TIME
It's not the destination but the journey they say,
don't live your life in the past, but for today.
It's all easier said than done,
seems far more comfortable to run,
but wherever you go, there you are
whether it's at home, or afar.
Burying your head in the sand,
instead of reaching out your hand,
to yourself, for yourself, filling that space,
opening your heart, letting someone into that place.
Raw and vulnerable, open to possible pain
is the only way forward, the way to keep sane.
The time has come to let others in,
and work together for the sake of all men.
Souls must unite as the Prophecies said,
our actions now determine if we end up dead.
So in the end, I guess it's all worth a look,
at what we gave and what we took.
The scales may be balanced once again,
if we make the right choices, peace & love will win.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2010 ©
AFTERMATH
Taking chances, letting you in
to my life, my world
guided by spirit
to experience this soul connection
not knowing what my lessons would be.
The aftermath of ashes under my feet,
I rise like the phoenix
eyes wide open as i dust myself off
foggy...weary....alone.
Left to look at myself in the mirror
the strong woman emerging
while the little girl cries.
Slowly letting go of an old way of being,
forgiveness whispering in the distance
wounds still fresh
fear and anger still looming.
Standing on the bridge of time
between yesterday and tomorrow.....
with no regrets.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2008 ©
MY WISH FOR YOU
(dedicated with love to the next generation)
I wish for you a world of peace,
where you look past the chaos and see hope.
Feel hope.
I wish for you to find your gifts, your purpose,
and encouragement to fulfill your dreams.
All of your dreams.
I wish for you to see the magic in life,
to be open to receive the miracles.
To expect the miracles.
I wish for you to experience love in all forms,
to know inner peace, and heaven on earth.
Barb Cote
February 2010©
ANONYMOUS
Downtown streets are lively and busy this spring day
Anonymous, I sit, among a sea of people in this crazy city
Invisible and separate it seems
Yet somehow connected to each and every human walking by
The lost, the lonely, the hungry, and the ones who don’t see them
Everyone with a story to tell, many will never be heard
Looking past the high rises and concrete
To the sky, sun, clouds and trees
I see an eagle soaring high above
And wonder who else here sees the only thing that’s real.
Written by Barb Cote
May 2011 ©
MOTHER EARTH
We honor you and all your natural wonders
strength and courage in all that you do.
Your ability to nurture us with your abundance,
the miracles you show us every day.
You soothe us with your gentle love
as we nestle in your bosom.
Actions speaking in place of words,
never scolding or mean spirited.
Those who disrespect you
shall feel your wrath.
Those who worship you
shall feel your love.
We protect you and will be with you
to experience the miracle as you cleanse yourself
and the world becomes new again.
Written by Barb Cote
May 2008 ©
HOPELESS ONE
In a dark gloomy corner
scared and nervous he sat
wishing he could blend in with the brick wall
the roadmaps in his eyes led nowhere
he depends totally on his addictions
his money never honestly made
never honestly spent
no one to trust, no one to love
he drowns his sorrows by staying numb
slowly his troubled life will come to a halt.
Written by Barb Cote
February 1981 ©
CROSSING OVER
For some it is the end, the beginning for others
to sleep, to die, to dream
imagination or reality?
Heart slows by day
floating, flying, gone from here
from fighting, hating, killing.
Seeing the light
tranquility and love
discovering the new world
buried is the body
active is the soul
he is missed by all
he is happy now
gone from this hell
to a better place
unknown to beings here.
Each put on earth
a goal to meet, a purpose to serve
once accomplished we are taken away
gone from this world.
Gone home.
Written by Barb Cote
August 1982 ©
THE AWAKENING
Amidst the chaos, in among the debris
lay shimmering crystals who's power can free
our soul's ego, pain and fear
just pick them up and hold them near.
They are a gift from the ancestors to help us heal
before we came here we all made a deal,
to help each other, all living things,
the Earth Mother, the animals not just human beings.
It is time for the awakening which is now taking place,
in the end a planet of peace, all who dwell here sharing one space.
Written by Barb Cote
November 2007 ©
UNLOCKING THE PAST
My soul longs to meet you and has for this lifetime it seems
wondering when the wind will blow you closer
will I recognize you as we promised in another place, another time?
Our souls are wise and strong and remember this vow
to grow through the human experience this time,
knowing only once we cross over once more, if the lessons were completed.
Creator blessing the union and guiding along the way
for the highest good of our souls, this earth, of man, for the new world.
A celebration, a dance of love, of peace, of joy.
Time never dies, neither do feelings of love.
My love is unconditional and holds no expectations,
it is never fearful, never sorry.
It is a flame that burns bright and warm
through time and space, first for myself and my Creator,
then for you and the children, the animals, our Mother.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2010
REVISED LYRICS TO PROUD MARY
♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫
(dedicated with love to the people along the Mackenzie River
in the Northwest Territories)
Left an empty life in the city
headed North to live every night and day
and I never lost one minute of sleepin'
worryin' bout the way things might have been
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
Saw the midnight sun in Sahtu
had alot of bonfires in Norman Wells
but I never thought the kindness from my people
would touch me in a way that makes my lonely heart swell
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
If you come up to the river
bet you gonna find some people who live
you don't have to worry if you got no money
people on the river are happy to give
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫
Written by Barb Cote
August 2010
Seems like only yesterday we were all so young,
a whole life ahead of us, to live, learn and become.
Life changes in the blink of an eye
what we once knew is no more, leaving us to ask why?
Why do we leave? Where do we go?
Death is life's great mystery, will we truly ever know?
Maybe our people are on the other side,
in our small town in Heaven, awaiting the next to arrive.
Where past hurts and regrets all fall away,
where they celebrate their lives and reminisce about the good old days.
Cab drivers, volunteers, town gossips and mayors,
store owners, log builder, youth and elders are there.
Carpenters and contractors, and fur babies too,
the list grows long though we wish it wasn't true.
What wisdom would they share from where they are now?
Maybe be kinder to each other and be your own best friend,
that money, stuff and titles mean nothing in the end.
Count your blessings no matter how small,
share your abundance, gifts and wisdom with all.
Find peace, find joy, and know your soul,
you're never alone and are stronger than you know.
Our small town on Earth will never be the same,
your presence is missed and we'll forever speak your name.
We are loving each other like never before,
as broken hearts mend, and walls become doors.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2016 ©
GO TO SHOP TO PURCHASE A PRINT
OUR BIG WORLD IN HEAVEN
Seems like only yesterday we were all so young,
with a whole life ahead of us, to live, learn and become.
Life changes in the blink of an eye,
what we once knew is no more, leaving us to ask why?
Why do we leave? Where do we go?
Death is life's great mystery, will we truly ever know?
Maybe all the souls are on the other side,
in our big world in Heaven, awaiting the next to arrive.
Where past hurts and regrets all fall away,
where they celebrate their lives and reminisce about the good old days.
Where skin color and status doesn't exist,
where everyone is equal, which to humans seems a myth.
The homeless, the hungry, Chiefs, Queens and Mayors,
skeptics and mystics, lovers and haters are there.
All ages, all religions, winged ones and four leggeds too,
the list grows long though we wish it wasn't true.
What wisdom would they share from where they are now?
Maybe be kinder to each other and be your own best friend,
that money, power and titles mean nothing in the end.
Who owns the most stuff and has the biggest house doesn't win,
all that matters is how you loved and what you learned from your sins.
Count your blessings no matter how small,
share your abundance, gifts and love with all.
Find peace, find joy, and know your soul,
you're never alone and are stronger than you know.
Our big world on Earth will never be the same,
your presence is missed and we'll forever speak your name.
We are loving each other like never before,
as broken hearts mend, and walls become doors.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2020 ©
(the year the pandemic changed us forever)
GO TO SHOP TO PURCHASE A PRINT
THE JOURNEY
Out of the shadows of fear and pain
into the warm, soft light of peace within.
A journey, a path our souls chose to walk on this Earth
where opportunities are disguised as challenges
and uncertainties can lead us to unwavering faith.
Aware of the road we have walked so far
with no knowledge of what lies before us.
Sitting quietly at the crossroads
asking for guidance from the Great Mystery.
A light appears in the distance as the fog slowly lifts
there's no wrong way to travel as all paths lead home.
To choose from a place of fear and shame; the past...
or from a place of strength and courage; the unknown...
to cry a tear of grief or one of joy,
the choice is our own.
Written by Barb Cote
October 2008 ©
MOON SONG
When I feel small and I’m not sure why
I’m reminded to stare up into the night sky
To breathe in your beauty and feminine power
my heart opens wide with the grace of a flower
I drink in your wisdom and hear your song
making all right what I thought was all wrong.
Synching with your cycles keeps me living in the flow
my human side aligning more closely with my soul
As you move past full I release another layer
making room for more good, knowing you hear my prayers
The day you are in darkness, to human eyes unseen
I pray for world peace, for all to live free
You reach full once again, there’s nothing left to hide
open and raw, I finally feel alive.
It’s a wonder this universe and its vast enormity
you are the moon, and I’m just me
Sing to me Grandmother, your wise moon song
help me remember as I sing along
No longer alone I’m feeling part of the sum
my soul is on fire, I knew this time would come.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2013 ©
IDLE NO MORE
It's a time of celebration, if we can see it that way
this awakening of souls who've been waiting to play
The songs and stirrings from deep within
no longer imprisoned as they once had been
Truths surfacing and opening wounds
healing in cycles, like those of the moon
Strength of a culture, despite what's been done
smoking a pipe in place of a gun
It's a peaceful stand that is taking place
to wake the people caught up in the race
Like sheep being led by the big bad wolf
numbed to the point of becoming aloof
Understanding only what they've been told
that true wealth comes in the form of gold
We have no time for racial discrimination
As the truth is revealed we can stand as one Nation
Division is happening in a very good way
not by color or creed, but by what our hearts say
Forgiveness will come one person at a time
for those who seek wealth and are blind to the signs
Prophecies fulfilled as our souls have always known
now teaching our youth what we've been shown
Ancestors close by watching our actions
a collective stand with no distractions
Power to the peaceful ones taking this stand
for the next generations and our Mother, the land
Drums now beating from shore to shore
The circle is strong and we are Idle No More
Written by Barb Cote
January 2013 ©
SPIRIT OF COBALT
She wandered the streets of this small town as a girl,
only hindsight would reveal it as the rarest of pearls…
Thirty years have passed since she left for the Arctic,
her return visits home are emotionally cathartic.
Memories surface with each familiar face,
a story is ingrained in every single place…
At the top of Cobalt stairs with a tear in her eye,
she realizes this town gave her wings to fly.
History of silver, speaks through murals in the streets,
a common thread that bonds us, that just can’t be beat…
Legend says Fred LaRose threw a hammer at a fox,
next thing he saw was silver gleaming from the rocks.
So the frenzy began, many came from far away,
it’s because of this, we’re all connected today…
The headframe and the train station are significant sights,
the Fraser was the place to find the action every night.
Our streets are named Pyrite, Ruby and Dunning,
a walk to Sass Lake in the fall time is stunning…
Bedrock and wilderness and the Cobalt song,
around the campfire we sat, all singin’ along.
A drive to ragged shoots was simply the best,
she sees clearly now, she’s been incredibly blessed…
The Strand Theatre’s still kickin, it’s called Classic now,
oldest building remains standing, and that deserves a bow.
Coming back is easy, it’s the leaving that’s rough,
She is a Cobalt girl, but this day she’s not so tough…
She walks proudly in the world and speaks highly of this place,
Spirit of Cobalt always with her, like a constant embrace.
Written by Barb Cote
March 2012 ©
TRADITION
Twin otter on floats, loaded up, here we go
three generations, food and gear in tow
this island in Canada's Arctic comes to life each fall
family gathers for the traditional hunt, one and all
Colored leaves cover the ground
full moon light shines all around
feels like we haven't been here for so long
we're always welcomed back by the swans and their song....
Geese are flying south in full force
Moose on the mainland, in rut of course
a few come forward to sacrifice their life
to ensure we don't experience a year of strife
but rather abundance, we are blessed yet again
a celebration of life, for us and for them
Snow covers the mountains, there's a chill in the air
scales are balanced, everything is kept fair.....
The cycle of life is a delicate thing
time on the land makes our hearts sing
Planet of love, the first star out each night
it's reflection on the lake is a powerful sight
Rainbows and eagles speak of prophecy
all is honored here, earth, wind, rocks & trees
Our lives can resemble heaven or hell
but in this sacred place, all is perfectly well.
Mahsi
Written by Barb Cote
September 2010 ©
WALK WITH ME
Every day is paradise in the Pacific Northwest
she walks and skips through the majestic rain forest
on an island called Lummi where the land is respected
and cared for by the people as if it wer expected
She gazes to the sky through the giant cedars,
knowing if they were human, they’d make powerful leaders
Each branch an extension of its source
all working together with no trace of force
Growing with the seasons year after year
living in the moment, never knowing fear
She apologizes for the humans and their blatant abuse
and asks for forgiveness for our choosing to misuse
for money and power and who can get the most
a result of our egos, and hearts that have closed
She expresses her love as she continues on her way
breathing in the beauty of yet another day
Carpets of moss cover tree trunks and rocks
Mother Earth’s version of a warm pair of socks
Ferns and dry cedar make up the floor
the smell of dampness in the earth leaves her wanting more
She will return again tomorrow to this magical place
she thanks the island people for protecting sacred space
Written by Barb Cote
February 2012 ©
THREE DAY
(dedicated with love and gratitude to the McDonald clan)
Between the Franklins and the Mackenzies
there lies a sacred space.
An island on a lake, the most beautiful place.
Where my McDonald family comes year after year,
to live on the land in their hearts they hold dear.
It is a plentiful land which provides every season,
the Creator does nothing without having a reason.
It is a gift, this land, his creation,
where the traditions are passed on to the next generation.
Spirits linger above of the souls who have passed,
watching over their loved ones knowing their teachings will last.
Offerings are made and the cycle goes on,
until the next fall......another year has gone.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2006 ©
TEN MILE ISLAND
(dedicated with love and many thanks to the Hodgson clan)
There is a place in the wilderness called Ten Mile Island
it looks over the Mackenzie, the shores covered in sand.
There's a welcome feeling in the air when you're here
and you never have to worry there's always a cheer!
It's a gathering place for family and friends
where the fun, love and laughter never seems to end.
It belongs to the people of the Hodgson clan,
but everyone's welcome, child, woman and man.
There's singing in the air, and God's playing a tune
around the fire we sit under the stars and the moon.
There's a place in the wilderness on the land called Sahtu
where we come to escape, where you can just be you.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2005 ©
EAGLE SPIRIT
I call on you now great winged one
to help me soar above the mundane
lend me your medicine, your wisdom and sight
so I may observe my path
from a higher perspective
I see my fears settling on your sturdy wings
being offered gently to Creator
for purification and transformation
raining back down on me
in the form of new hope and faith
of great things to come
Written by Barb Cote
August 2009 ©
OUT OF THE ECLIPSES
Out of the eclipses
she emerges weary yet strong.
Left reeling from the preordained events
strategically placed for her soul's progression.
She wonders if it ever gets easier
at the same time knowing she is the only one
with the power to change her actions, her reactions.
She learns to use this energy
this gift from Grandmother Moon
to evolve, to emerge
from the inner to the outer her.
To find her power, her love, her purpose
understanding as eclipse time begins, chaos will reign.
She must stay grounded
while seeking higher perspective
until this energy passes
and all is calm again....
yet forever changed.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2008 ©
YELAPA
There's a pretty little place in a bay on the sea,
a small village in Mexico everyone should see.
The second you arrive there, it feels like home,
life moves at its own pace, everyone's free to roam.
You arrive by boat, there are no roads to drive,
the energy here makes you feel so alive!
On the journey over, along the water trails
you may see dolphins, stingrays and whales.
One thing's for sure, you won't be sorry you came,
there's even a chance, you'll never be the same.
Written by Barb Cote
March 2007 ©
IT'S TIME
It's not the destination but the journey they say,
don't live your life in the past, but for today.
It's all easier said than done,
seems far more comfortable to run,
but wherever you go, there you are
whether it's at home, or afar.
Burying your head in the sand,
instead of reaching out your hand,
to yourself, for yourself, filling that space,
opening your heart, letting someone into that place.
Raw and vulnerable, open to possible pain
is the only way forward, the way to keep sane.
The time has come to let others in,
and work together for the sake of all men.
Souls must unite as the Prophecies said,
our actions now determine if we end up dead.
So in the end, I guess it's all worth a look,
at what we gave and what we took.
The scales may be balanced once again,
if we make the right choices, peace & love will win.
Written by Barb Cote
September 2010 ©
AFTERMATH
Taking chances, letting you in
to my life, my world
guided by spirit
to experience this soul connection
not knowing what my lessons would be.
The aftermath of ashes under my feet,
I rise like the phoenix
eyes wide open as i dust myself off
foggy...weary....alone.
Left to look at myself in the mirror
the strong woman emerging
while the little girl cries.
Slowly letting go of an old way of being,
forgiveness whispering in the distance
wounds still fresh
fear and anger still looming.
Standing on the bridge of time
between yesterday and tomorrow.....
with no regrets.
Written by Barb Cote
April 2008 ©
MY WISH FOR YOU
(dedicated with love to the next generation)
I wish for you a world of peace,
where you look past the chaos and see hope.
Feel hope.
I wish for you to find your gifts, your purpose,
and encouragement to fulfill your dreams.
All of your dreams.
I wish for you to see the magic in life,
to be open to receive the miracles.
To expect the miracles.
I wish for you to experience love in all forms,
to know inner peace, and heaven on earth.
Barb Cote
February 2010©
ANONYMOUS
Downtown streets are lively and busy this spring day
Anonymous, I sit, among a sea of people in this crazy city
Invisible and separate it seems
Yet somehow connected to each and every human walking by
The lost, the lonely, the hungry, and the ones who don’t see them
Everyone with a story to tell, many will never be heard
Looking past the high rises and concrete
To the sky, sun, clouds and trees
I see an eagle soaring high above
And wonder who else here sees the only thing that’s real.
Written by Barb Cote
May 2011 ©
MOTHER EARTH
We honor you and all your natural wonders
strength and courage in all that you do.
Your ability to nurture us with your abundance,
the miracles you show us every day.
You soothe us with your gentle love
as we nestle in your bosom.
Actions speaking in place of words,
never scolding or mean spirited.
Those who disrespect you
shall feel your wrath.
Those who worship you
shall feel your love.
We protect you and will be with you
to experience the miracle as you cleanse yourself
and the world becomes new again.
Written by Barb Cote
May 2008 ©
HOPELESS ONE
In a dark gloomy corner
scared and nervous he sat
wishing he could blend in with the brick wall
the roadmaps in his eyes led nowhere
he depends totally on his addictions
his money never honestly made
never honestly spent
no one to trust, no one to love
he drowns his sorrows by staying numb
slowly his troubled life will come to a halt.
Written by Barb Cote
February 1981 ©
CROSSING OVER
For some it is the end, the beginning for others
to sleep, to die, to dream
imagination or reality?
Heart slows by day
floating, flying, gone from here
from fighting, hating, killing.
Seeing the light
tranquility and love
discovering the new world
buried is the body
active is the soul
he is missed by all
he is happy now
gone from this hell
to a better place
unknown to beings here.
Each put on earth
a goal to meet, a purpose to serve
once accomplished we are taken away
gone from this world.
Gone home.
Written by Barb Cote
August 1982 ©
THE AWAKENING
Amidst the chaos, in among the debris
lay shimmering crystals who's power can free
our soul's ego, pain and fear
just pick them up and hold them near.
They are a gift from the ancestors to help us heal
before we came here we all made a deal,
to help each other, all living things,
the Earth Mother, the animals not just human beings.
It is time for the awakening which is now taking place,
in the end a planet of peace, all who dwell here sharing one space.
Written by Barb Cote
November 2007 ©
UNLOCKING THE PAST
My soul longs to meet you and has for this lifetime it seems
wondering when the wind will blow you closer
will I recognize you as we promised in another place, another time?
Our souls are wise and strong and remember this vow
to grow through the human experience this time,
knowing only once we cross over once more, if the lessons were completed.
Creator blessing the union and guiding along the way
for the highest good of our souls, this earth, of man, for the new world.
A celebration, a dance of love, of peace, of joy.
Time never dies, neither do feelings of love.
My love is unconditional and holds no expectations,
it is never fearful, never sorry.
It is a flame that burns bright and warm
through time and space, first for myself and my Creator,
then for you and the children, the animals, our Mother.
Written by Barb Cote
August 2010
REVISED LYRICS TO PROUD MARY
♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫
(dedicated with love to the people along the Mackenzie River
in the Northwest Territories)
Left an empty life in the city
headed North to live every night and day
and I never lost one minute of sleepin'
worryin' bout the way things might have been
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
Saw the midnight sun in Sahtu
had alot of bonfires in Norman Wells
but I never thought the kindness from my people
would touch me in a way that makes my lonely heart swell
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
If you come up to the river
bet you gonna find some people who live
you don't have to worry if you got no money
people on the river are happy to give
Big current keeps on turnin'
Mackenzie River keeps on yearnin'
Rollin' rollin' rollin' on the river
♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫ ♪ ♫
Written by Barb Cote
August 2010