This piece was commissioned in 2022 by the St. George Children's Choir, a classical children's choir founded in Southern Utah by Mary Wilde and Rachel Cox. The St. George Children's Choir (SGCC) has the mission of providing the children of Southern Utah a classical choir experience that expands their minds, hearts, and souls through song with an emphasis on healthy vocal technique and high-caliber choral repertoire. For more information about SGCC, go to stgeorgechildrenschoir.org.

A note from Mary Wilde, SGCC Co-founder: 

I discovered this poem many years ago on the wall of the Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland, Oregon. As a young doctor interviewing for pediatric residency positions, this poem spoke to me of the welcoming, healing presence the natural world offers and that I wanted to offer my patients as a physician. I copied down the poem on a piece of paper and kept it for over 15 years. When the possibility arose of commissioning a new piece for the St. George Children's Choir, I immediately thought of this poem for the text. 

In whatever sphere we're in, we have the power to cultivate an atmosphere of safety and belonging where others feel they have a place. As you experience this piece, please receive our invitation to you: 

Be home here. 

Be healed. 

Be well, 

Be with us all, young friend.