Lean On Me A Reason to Smile DAN RATHER AND ELLIOT KIRSCHNER NOV 5 From the opening notes, the song resonates with the soul. In the simplicity of its chords lies its power. In its lyrics lies a beautiful vision for our common humanity.  “Lean on Me,” from the legendary Bill Withers, always packs an emotional punch. In a time of division, when we see so much selfishness and cruelty, we felt this would be a timely antidote to those who elevate hurt over help.  We believe it provides another reason to smile, although we cannot promise your eyes will remain dry.   We share two versions below. We also share the lyrics, because they are worth reading. They fill us with hope.  First up is a live performance from 1973. The music. The voice. The power. Now for the lyrics: Sometimes in our lives We all have pain We all have sorrow But if we are wise We know that there's always tomorrow Lean on me When you're not strong And I'll be your friend I'll help you carry on... For it won't be long Till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on Please swallow your pride If I have things you need to borrow For no one can fill Those of your needs that you won't let show You just call on me brother when you need a hand We all need somebody to lean on I just might have a problem that you'll understand We all need somebody to lean on Lean on me When you're not strong And I'll be your friend I'll help you carry on... For it won't be long Till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on You just call on me brother When you need a hand We all need somebody to lean on I just might have a problem that you'll understand We all need somebody to lean on If there is a load you have to bear That you can't carry I'm right up the road I'll share your load If you just call me In 2015, Bill Withers was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He sang “Lean on Me” with Stevie Wonder and John Legend. Not too shabby.