This arrangement came into being a few years ago when I was asked if I had a musical number I could share with my YSA ward. My lovely Ward Music Coordinator inspired me to actually finish it so it could be enjoyed by other people (Hi Hillary!). 

I've always loved this primary song. At the time of my life when I was creating the arrangment, I kept feeling like it needed to be longer somehow. I was at a spiritual point where I was trying to stay on the gospel path, but struggling to feel like it was worth it. My testimony of how God works in our lives to remind us what we're there for was strengthened as I was trying to figure out the second verse. 

When I started, I wanted an accompianment that reflected the excitement that I'm sure each of us felt right before we came down to Earth. I feel that the extra lyrics help to enforce the idea that we're here for a reason. The Lord knows each of our paths and will help guide us down them as we strive to be close to Him. It is my personal testimony added to a beautiful idea that was lovingly presented to us by Vanja Watkins. 

Tips for playing: SLOW IT DOWN when you're practicing it -- it can be played smoothly, I promise. I've added a spot or two of fingering in as a suggestion, but if that doesn't work for you, please take the time to adjust it to your own hands. 

Tips for singing: It sounds best when it's being sung with sincerity. I've always instructed my vocalists to sing with their testimony and put emphasis where it feels right.