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My Mama is a Shining Light

from Searching For What's True by Eli Conley

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about

This song was inspired by the true story of a friend of mine who grew up with a single mom in a small town in New Mexico in the 90’s. They attended a conservative Catholic church, and my friend's mom came out as a lesbian when she started dating the female choir director. The backlash from the church and community was fierce, but my friend stuck by her mom.

lyrics

My mom was at the organ under Jesus’ fiery body 

She raised us to love God and to do right 

She would open up her mouth and all the high notes would spill out 

My mama is a shining light

My mama stretched her arms out and she held me to her chest 

She whispered to me softly in the night 

That Monica, my choir director, would be moving in 

My mom said “she’s my shining light”

And oh I looked at Jesus on the wall 

And wondered what he thought 



The school bus came next morning and I clutched my stuffy bear 

The kids from church they would not meet my eye 

I took a breath and stood right up, my tears all running down 

I said my mom has spent all of her life here in this town 

As far as I’m concerned I think my mom should wear a crown

My mama is a shining light 

My mama is a shining light

credits

from Searching For What's True, released July 14, 2023

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Eli Conley Sacramento, California

​Eli Conley is an indie folk singer-songwriter and activist based in Sacramento, CA. He makes music for queer and trans folks, justice seekers, and anyone who doesn’t fit easily in a box. Eli's voice is tender and heartfelt, with melodies and that can leave you feeling teary-eyed yet hopeful. As a gay trans man from the South, his songs tell stories that aren’t always reflected in roots music. ... more

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