Last night I had a dream you was the homecoming queen   Today you're 18, happy birthday Irene   Quit school you had to drop out to raise your little child   Doesn't seem to be anyone around   You got to reach up to touch rock bottom   The powers that be keep you downtrodden   Daughter of Zion, I heard your prayer   Just cast your cares and please beware of snakes   They come in all shapes and sizes   Tempt you, put scales on your eyelids         Father I'm stronger than when I first believed   Don't waste your sorrows   They'll give you strength… tomorrow   Your Calvary's about to come so      Hush little baby baby don't you cry   Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby   Everything's gonna be alright   The Lord's gonna answer your prayer tonight   Hush little baby don't you cry   Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby   Everything's gonna be alright   The Lord's gonna answer your prayer         Keep your head up, don't you ever let up   This storm will pass you be ready for the next one       Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders, don't say that it's over   I heard your prayers, just cast your cares   And I'll be there so don't you fear       Irene I carried you when you was too weak to walk   I took to you when you gave your heart to God   Faithful and true, that's what I'll always be to you   Believe in you, believe in Me and these mountains have to move   You have dreams and aspirations   I knew you before creation   Your foundation's solid   I will give you a palace, restore your soul   You'll be up for any challenge   Many storms are on the way better sharpen your faith   Count the cost, take up your cross   And wear it every day   Rest in Me and I will give you strength   Blessed is she, Irene who seeks my face