across the universe

John Lennon said it was the finest lyric he had ever written. Composed during his fascination with TM, it includes a mantra line, "Jai guru deva Om", which would roughly translate as "hail the divine guru". It has always had a remarkable calmness about it, an oasis of peace in a world of chaos.

This week it was beamed into space by NASA to comemmorate the 40th anniversary of its recording, and the 50th anniversary of NASA itself. It was aimed toward Polaris on what has been called "Across the Universe Day".

Many artists have covered the song, including Fiona Apple whose version for the film "Pleasantville" is juxtaposed against a background of an angry mob attacking the local diner. It's worth a view. I find meaning for our current social climate.

For Mom. I miss you so much tonight, and you're so far across the universe.



Words are flowing out like endless rain into a paper cup,
They slither while they pass, they slip away across the universe
Pools of sorrow, waves of joy are drifting through my open mind,
Possessing and caressing me.
Jai guru deva Om
Nothing's gonna change my world,
Nothing's gonna change my world.

Images of broken light which dance before me like a million eyes,
That call me on and on across the universe,
Thoughts meander like a restless wind inside a letter box they
Tumble blindly as they make their way
Across the universe
Jai guru deva Om
Nothing's gonna change my world,
Nothing's gonna change my world.

Sounds of laughter shades of life are ringing
Through my open ears inciting and inviting me
Limitless undying love which shines around me like a
million suns, it calls me on and on
Across the universe
Jai guru deva Om
Nothing's gonna change my world,
Nothing's gonna change my world.