Running errands, stuck in traffic, cut off in traffic, crawling through traffic, frustrated and angry while enduring a relentless stream of bad news droning on cable radio, I clicked to another channel and was instantly transported to an oasis of calm.

When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be
And in my hour of darkness, she is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be. Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be

Paul McCartney’s poetry offers the perfect message we need to hear. His words remind us to reflect and reconnect with our better selves.

McCartney drew inspiration from a dream about his late mother. “I went to bed, and wasn’t feeling too great in myself, and in my dream, my mother came to me, and she died maybe 10 years previously,” he described. “When someone who you’ve lost comes back to you in a dream, it’s a miraculous moment because you’re with them.

“She seemed to realize that I was going through struggles, and she said, ‘It’s gonna be ok. You’re gonna be ok. Just let it be.’ I felt great, and woke up and thought, ‘What did she say?’ Let it be. And then I sat down on a piano and wrote the song.”

Speaking words of wisdom, let it be. Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be

McCartney’s poetic lyrics are not about giving up but a reminder to find perspective. He asks us to acknowledge what we cannot control while channeling our energy into what we can: how we treat one another, the values we live by, and the choices we make for our collective future.

“Words of wisdom” remind us of the guiding principles that uphold a just and compassionate society. In a time of profound cultural division, we need more compassion, and much more open-mindedness as daily practices, daily prayers, if you will.

The harmony in McCartney’s song is an uplifting message: we too must seek harmony in our actions, finding ways to unite rather than divide, to listen instead of shout, to seek understanding rather than heighten hostility.

And in my hour of darkness, she is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be

We cannot allow the shadows of division or despair to weaken us. Instead, let it be a reminder to double down on what matters most: cultivating kindness, protecting the vulnerable, and standing up for what is right. Just as the soft piano underscores McCartney’s lyrics, our values must guide us forward.

Living by our shared truth, compassion, and responsibility, we create a chorus of hope that drowns out the fear and anger. Let us all resolve to let it be our anthem, not just for calm but for change.

And when the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me
Shinin’ until tomorrow, let it be.

Take a moment to experience what we all need in challenging times:  hope, peace, wisdom, guidance, serenity, resilience and faith.