Meaning of "I Remember, I Believe" by Sweet Honey In The Rock

The lyrics of "I Remember, I Believe" by Sweet Honey In The Rock are imbued with a profound sense of reverence for the singer's ancestors and the hardships they faced. The opening lines about the singer not knowing how their mother walked her troubles down and their father stood his ground speak to the strength and perseverance exhibited by previous generations in the face of adversity. The mention of slavery serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles endured by the singer's people, yet the refrain of "I do remember, that's why I believe" suggests that honoring and remembering their ancestors' resilience fuels the singer's own belief in overcoming challenges. The references to natural phenomena such as rivers overflowing, snow falling, and hurricanes sweeping through the land evoke a sense of awe and wonder at the power and beauty of the world. The act of standing in a rainstorm and still believing speaks to finding faith and strength even in the midst of life's storms and uncertainties. The lyrics also touch on the spiritual dimension, with mentions of angels waking the singer up and feeling the presence of God in the morning dew. The belief in the power of the universe knowing the singer's name and giving them a song to sing conveys a sense of purpose and connection to something greater than oneself. The final lines, where the singer raises their voice for justice, underscore a commitment to using their beliefs and experiences to advocate for what is right and just in the world.