Lyrics

A Methodist's L'Chaim ©2023 Andy Offutt Irwin, BMI
This Georgia Methodist boy
wants to leave you with a prayer,
a reminder of sorts
that no matter where
your travels take you
or whom you may meet
There’s a toast you can share
A reminder of how sweet
this life and this time has drawn you
And them
So as long as we’re here
as long as we’re ibidem
L’Chaim!
L’Chaim!

Now, Chaim means “life!”
this existence we know
As rich and confusing as
Stivender’s banjo
A toast and prayer?
Yes, I said them both
Turn next to you there
and share this small oath:
Before we all say, good night,
look at your neighbor and say,
to-morrow please have
a good namaste
And L‘Chaim
L‘Chaim

[Charlotte says…]
“Andy, yes, there are those who say
That it’s inappropriate
for you to appropriate
a phrase from another faith”
[Andy]
As long as there are prayers that
that acknowledge each life,
Charlotte, I think we should try ‘em
So, join me if you will
L’Chaim!

[BRIDGE]
You can't have too many bless yous
or road rise up to meets
Share lots of cheers
and salaam is sweet
Lift the burden from your heart
And wash someone’s feets
If you have kites in your attic, go fly 'em
With children in your neighborhood
L‘Chaim!

[whistle solo]
[Charlotte]
Andy, I’m still a bit confused
because in my faith
we are not used
to a toast and a prayer
being the same

[Andy]
Charlotte,
a proper toast is a prayer
by another name

This Georgia Methodist boy
Wants to send you with a prayer
A Reminder of sorts
that no matter where
Your travels take you
Or whom you may meet
There’s a toast you can share
A reminder of how sweet
this life and this time has drawn you
and them
So as long as we’re here
As long we’re ibidem
L’Chaim!
L’Chaim!
L’Chaim!
L’Chaim!