“Get Me Through December” by Alison Krauss and Natalie MacMaster

“Get Me Through December” was released a second time in 2007 on Krauss’ album, “A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection.” 
Courtesy: Concord

During a season when loss may feel especially heavy for some, “Get Me Through December” is a poignant reminder that we may someday surmount the mountain of grief. The breathy, emotive Alison Krauss carries a grieving heart toward a hopeful spring. And Canadian folk musician Natalie MacMaster accompanies the musical maven of bluegrass on violin, inciting further solace within an aching soul. For those who may otherwise enjoy either artist, this compilation is certainly a holiday feast for the ears.

Grief in December may feel as harsh as the cold ice and snow in winter to those mourning.

This doubly alluring tune is featured on two albums. “Get Me Through December” was first released in September 1999 on MacMaster’s “In My Hands.” The poignant song was again released on Krauss’ third album, “A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection,” which includes additional collaborations with world-renowned artists such as Sting, James Taylor and John Waite. According to a well-versed music aficionado at oldtimemusic.com, Krauss felt a personal connection to the lyrics and melody, inspiring her to record it with MacMaster.

The lyrical prose likens pain to the bitter winter. The heart endures while the cold overshadows its warmth. As the melody progresses, a declaration of hope is made by the lost and wounded soul. And the momentum builds.

How pale is the sky that brings forth the rain
As the changing of seasons prepares me again
For the long bitter nights and the wild winter’s day
My heart has grown cold, my love stored away
My heart has grown cold, my love stored away

I’ve been to the mountain, left my tracks in the snow
Where souls have been lost and the walking wounded go
I’ve taken the pain, no girl should endure
But faith can move mountains of that I am sure
Faith can move mountains of that I am sure

The song deeply resonates with those caring for ill family, as well those who’ve lost a loved one. Comments beneath this YouTube rendition performed live by the two artists refer to “Get Me Through December” as both beautiful and comforting.

The chorus arouses the woeful spirit to carry onward. Grief, in particular, may be even more difficult for some during a month that is most often a celebratory one for others. There is a reminder to oneself that the pain spurred by the memories will eventually pass. And new beginnings await beyond the suffering on the other side of December.

Just get me through December
A promise I’ll remember
Get me through December
So I can start again

The final refrain harkens us to believe that we have all we need inside to get us through December: “… peace is a gift that must come from within.”

For those having an especially difficult time during the holiday season, honoring the winter solstice as portal for healing grief may help to boost your spirit. And practicing mindfulness may be another valuable tool to help get you through December.