My mother was a dancer, ballet and modern. She was also a devoted Christ-follower who formed a small group of other dancers (including my wife) for the purpose of employing tastefully choreographed movement in worship. Perhaps because I’m so clumsy, I was both captivated by and envious of the way they could praise God in such a beautifully physical way. But this was during a time when dance of any kind was still frowned upon in most evangelical circles. And more than once, I witnessed fellow believers pass judgement on their form of expression as being inappropriate. This song was an attempt on my part to provide their critics with a window into the heart of adoration that motivated their movements. So, I’m deeply grateful to have witnessed, in the years since, that attitudes toward this clearly biblical form of worship have broadly changed across the spectrum of the Christian church.

Whirling and Twirling

Words & music by Randy Boldt

All through the day I’ve been awaiting the chance
When I’d be alone and I could let my feet dance
Don’t need music, got a song in my heart
Don’t need a band to play, there’s just one part 

And I’m whirling and twirling, spinning around
Clapping my hands and singing allelu
Once again around and then, I stop and lift my hands
I turn my eyes to heaven and whisper, “I love You”

Come the next morning and, oh, what a sight
Darkening clouds are turning into pure white
Kicking my heals as I go out the door
I’ll be back later for a little bit more 

Of that whirling and twirling, spinning around
Clapping my hands and singing allelu
Once again around and then, I stop and lift my hands
I turn my eyes to heaven and whisper, “I love You”

Some people say I shouldn’t dance like I do
They say it’s fanatical and crazy too
But I’ve tried my best to find the right words to say
For expressing my praise and there’s just no better way

So I’m whirling and twirling, spinning around
Clapping my hands and singing allelu
Once again around and then, I stop and lift my hands
I turn my eyes to heaven and whisper, “I love You”

All through the day I’ve been awaiting the chance
When I’d be alone and I could let my feet dance
Don’t need music, got a song in my heart
Don’t need a band to play, there’s just one part