The Day Our Nation Cried – Musical Tribute to Sandy Hook

The Day Our Nation Cried Lyrics

The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting has hit home with so many of us on multiple levels. I wrote this song in the hope that perhaps the words might bring comfort to those who mourn. This song is dedicated in memory of those who died and in honor of those who survived. May God bless each of you as you search for strength beyond understanding.

The Day Our Nation Cried

(to the tune "American Pie")

The December day dawned bright and clear,

No one knew what pain lay near;

Seemed just like an ordinary day.

Hugs and kisses, homework packed;

I love you...I love you back,

Never guessing these might be the last.

But shots rang out and people cried,

Doors were locked and many died;

Arms and love surrounding,

Unlikely heroes abounding.

Calls for help, responders raced,

Sirens wailed and horrors faced;

No one really knowing what to think

The day our nation cried.

We want to ask...

Why, why did they have to die?

Should our teachers carry weapons?

What have we not tried?

We want to protect them and hold them tight.

The day our nation cried.

Survivors walked outside that day,

Unsure of what to do or say,

Seeking peace beyond the morn.

People showed their human side,

Tears fell down, arms opened wide;

Yearn for hope beyond amazing grief.

Life forever changed that day,

A tragedy in every way.

Will it make us bitter?

Or can it make us better?

It's so hard to look ahead,

Reaching out as the Spirit led;

Charging those left shaken

To honor each life taken.

Why, why did they have to die?

Should our teachers carry weapons?

What have we not tried?

We want to protect them and hold them tight.

The day our nation cried.

The day our nation cried.