The Youth Ranch is a microcosm of American culture, with children of all backgrounds coming to live together, sharing much in common, and having much to overcome in terms of differences. Our work in seeking a Common Ground where all can take a stand in the light of equal dignity is a barometer of hope for a culture tortured by strife as groups compete for separate rights. We believe and affirm that Americans have more in common from which to build a future together than they have differences that would seem to leave them impossibly divided.

Common Ground
Vocal: Thomas Hughes
Words and Music: Marla Jensen, Gary Priour and Kim Abel-Snell

We don’t live in the same house.
We come from different places
and are called by different names,
and yet we are the same.
We have traveled the same road,
shedding apprehension,
moving through our pain.
The burdens we have borne
have bought us this bond
and made us strong.

Chorus:
We are here on this common ground,
feeling a new power rising in our souls,
united by a knowledge
that we have overcome.
We are here on common ground.

Everlasting arms reach through our fears
as we share our heartaches,
and cry all our tears.
We have opened up our hearts
to one another.
We now grow in sweet protection,
strengthened by forgiveness,
empowered by love.
You are my family,
and we can finally say we’re not alone
.. . . we belong.

Chorus