2022 holds a significant milestone for my family. This year, my grandmother, Bobbie Kay Turner, celebrates her ninetieth birthday. In planning for the celebration, I was stumped about what to give her. I wanted it to be unique, something no one else would think of. Finally, I had the idea to compose a new song. I contacted my friend, James, and he was immediately on board. In fact, he had the first draft of a new poem back to me within the day!

When my grandmother (“Mimi” to her grandkids) was 36 years old, she and my grandfather moved to Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands with their six children to serve as missionaries; and she has been there since. So, when I think of Mimi, I can’t help but think of the many times I’ve sat and watched the ocean with her. Knowing this, James created a text that depicts life as a ship’s journey across the sea. Throughout the song, you will catch snippets of my grandmother’s favorite hymn Amazing Grace which, like Horizon, is a song about a journey.

My grandmother has lived a full, long life and continues to joyfully live each day. James’s beautiful lyrics perfectly capture her journey, particularly the final stanza. Mimi is known for being full of energy and abounding in love for those around her, and she never stops telling anyone who will listen about the divine light of an eternal home.

–      Shelton, October 18, 2022