Ripple

So – during the ceremony we’ll be asking everybody to sing “Ripple” by the Grateful Dead.

American Beauty: “I wish I never heard it, just so I could hear it again for the first time!”

Yes, you heard right. There will be a sing-along. No, you don’t have to participate. But honestly, the more voices and instruments that pitch in, the more awesome it will be. Even more awesomer: bring an instrument! Whatever you play – if you can carry it to the wedding, bring it! You’ll need it for the talent show anyway, right?

This is how the song goes. Four-part harmonies optional. Hell, being in tune is optional, too!

These are the lyrics – we’ll have copies, so don’t feel like you have to memorize it.

“Ripple”

The Grateful Dead

If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine
And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung,
Would you hear my voice come thru the music,
Would you hold it near as it were your own?

It’s a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken,
Perhaps they’re better left unsung.
I don’t know, don’t really care
Let there be songs to fill the air.

Ripple in still water,
When there is no pebble tossed,
Nor wind to blow.

Reach out your hand if your cup be empty,
If your cup is full may it be again,
Let it be known there is a fountain,
That was not made by the hands of men.

There is a road, no simple highway,
Between the dawn and the dark of night,
And if you go no one may follow,
That path is for your steps alone.

Ripple in still water,
When there is no pebble tossed,
Nor wind to blow.

You who choose to lead must follow
But if you fall you fall alone,
If you should stand then who’s to guide you?
If I knew the way I would take you home.

La dee da da da, la da da da da, da da da, da da, da da da da da
La da da da, la da da, da da, la da da da, la da, da da.

You can find the guitar chords here. Bring your guitar (or whatever you play)! It will be AWESOME!