Molly Ivins passed away today, from cancer.

I admit, I didn’t read her columns a lot, but when I did I’d laugh at a turn of phrase, applaud a “go git ‘em!” sentiment, and not really mind when she got all Texasy and stuff. She was a hoot, and each time I stumbled across a column, it was like discovering her all over again.

Since hearing of her death, the refrain from the song “I Hope You Dance”, by Lee Ann Womack, has been going through my mind. I don’t know if she loved it, hated it, or even knew of its existence. And it’s not really a song I listen to frequently either, but still… there it was. And I think I know why…

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat
But always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you’ll give faith a fighting chance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances
But they’re worth taking
Lovin’ might be a mistake
But it’s worth making
Don’t let some hell bent heart
Leave you bitter
When you come close to selling out
Reconsider
Give the heavens above
More than just a passing glance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance

She danced.

godspeed, Molly.