When I traveled on Vietnam Ties with Noelle and her family, I had already met Jared Rehberg. But Noelle hadn’t. That would come later, and they would create a special bond, the result of being camp counselor and camper at Colorado Heritage Camp-Vietnam.
In Vietnam, as Noelle and her family met her birthmom, the scene was so beautiful and touched me deeply. When Noelle met Jared, she shared her story, and Jared did what Jared does—he wrote a song.Jared lives “in song”—I have always sensed it is where his peace comes from, and he has eagerly shared his talent with the adoption community for many years.
Jared’s “magic” gave Noelle’s experience a title, music and incredible lyrics. Connected To You—A Song for Noelle is the result.
Click to Listen! Enjoy.
Lyrics:
Verse 1
The last time I saw you, I was eight years old.
Flew out of Denver, away from the cold.
It takes so long, to get back home.
I was adopted at seven months old.
I’ve got two brothers that I’ve never known.
This is the place, where I was born.
Chorus
I’ve got a picture with a smile we share.
I hold this place in my heart, like a burden we share.
I remember you loved me for who I am.
I can see what my life would have been.
Take care of my brothers, tell them I’ll be home soon.
The lines on my hands connect me to you.
Verse 2:
Walked through the market on a sunny day.
We bought some pearls from Ha Long Bay.
It’s so beautiful; I wish I could stay.
Chocolate filled crackers, exotic fruits.
We ate some Pho, my favorite soup.
There’s a red thread, between me and you.
Tell me about my father, where did you meet?
Does he sing and play music? Does he ask about me?
I wrote this song, can you hear me sing?
Chorus:
I’ve got a picture with a smile we share.
I hold this place in my heart, like a burden we share.
I remember you loved me for who I am.
I can see what my life would have been.
Take care of my brothers, tell them I’ll be home soon.
The lines on my hands connect me to you.
Verse 3:
I’ve got some friends I want you to meet.
Familiar stories, someone like me.
Just for the weekend, I feel Vietnamese.
I see my life, and the choice you made.
I was too young to appreciate.
When I grow up, I’ll come visit someday.
I live in a small town far away.
I never thought I’d feel this way.
You’re so pretty, just like me.
Chorus:
I’ve got a picture with a smile we share.
I hold this place in my heart, like a burden we share.
I remember you loved me for who I am.
I can see what my life would have been.
Take care of my brothers, tell them I’ll be home soon.
The lines on my hands connect me to you.