Through the Valley
I'm sure the version that was popular at the time I was young was by the Kingston Trio.
I do not remember my age, I only remember riding around our paddock (at least that's what we called it) on our Morgan-Standard-bred horse for hours singing the song. It was called, 'The Reverend Mr. Black'. I found this one by Johnny Cash and linked it:
There are many songs and poems about the valleys of life. There are many valleys in life. This Psalm of David is a favorite:
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. (Psalms 23:1-6 KJV)
There are many ways people draw strength from the above Psalm. As a gospel song tells us 'No tranquil joys on earth I know, No peaceful sheltering dome, This world's a wilderness of woe, This world is not my home."
We as sheep wander through this world. Evil wolves lurk in many places. And as the original song, 'You gotta walk that lonesome valley' says, no matter how many friends or how large a family you have, there are some valleys you must tread by yourself.
Others can sympathize, empathize, or feel your pain, but they can not fight your battle. Indeed, even if a person has had a similar battle you are a different person. Your battle will be yours alone.
You can click on the above link and here is a beautiful acapella hymn: God of the Mountain.
Psalms 19:7 "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. 8) The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9) The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 10) More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11) Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward."
