HOW DO WE SAY GOOD-BYE.

Stories Behind Songs of Inspiration. by An American Original BROTHER LEE HALL

Adios, farewell, so-long, adieu and many other such words are all ways of giving someone a parting greeting that, it is hoped, will not leave the wondering if they will ever see or talk to you again. These words are all an effort to impart a blessing and a thought of fondness upon the person from whom we are departing. But, what about the word "good-bye?" What does it really mean and where did it come from?

Well, this was the concern of Jeremiah Rankin way back in 1882, now 115 years ago. This highly educated doctor of theology and divinity studied the matter to the conclusion that the word "good-bye" was really nothing more than an acronym, or a combination of parts of other words, combined and used to say the same thing as the other words without saying the other words. Confused? Don't feel alone. The challenge of explaining to people was no easier for the doctor than it is for the rest of us.

But, Dr.Rankin, a congregational minister, wrote an emotional hymn that not only got people saying "good-bye" in a proper and respectful manner, but managed to do it to music that was enjoyed by early all who heard or sang it. Pastor Rankin's hymn consisted of a total of eight verses and a two-line chorus. Perhaps you have used Dr. Rankin's method instead of the acronym "good-bye," the words from which this acronym was originally made. And what ae those words?

"GOD BE WITH YOU"

So the next time we are talking to someone, whether on the phone or face-to-face, and it comes time to hang up or part company, let us say with confidence and faith:

"GOOD-BYE" The parting Christian hymn, "God Be With You 'Til We Meet Again"
was written by Dr. Jeremiah Rankin in 1882.

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