I am a tower of strength within and without, I am a tower of strength within (2x)

Let all burdens fall from my shoulders, all anxieties lift from my mind (2x)

Let all my shackles be loose, ah hah. Let all my shackles be loose. (2x)²²

Factoring in the group experience, I felt it was quite likely that only a few women would take part in singing. Surprisingly to me, while not all were clamoring to be heard, all of the women took part, although some more softly than others. Upon reflecting on this exercise afterwards, the women expressed enjoyment at being able to use their voices in this manner, in a safe circle where they were fairly comfortable they would not be judged.

I liked singing here—in this small room with the door closed but I still can't sing in public, I open my mouth but the sound can't come out.

I sing everywhere, to my son, to my house, I don't care if I am good or not. So what? I love to sing.

The singing experience also led to discussion around times in the past when a few of the participants were told their voices were not good enough to be heard. This exercise helped the women to recall past experiences in their lives that may have contributed to their present self-concept.

It was nice to hear everyone. I sang quiet but I am not used to it and I never ever had a lesson—ever—so this was new to me. My Mother could sing—she sang real nice but when I tried to sing she'd say "Put the cat out" so I stopped. Well I don't think she tried to be mean but she said some people can draw—some people can sing—course I couldn't do either.