Everything can change dramatically within 24 hours—all in the course of a day. We understand that change happens constantly, yet rarely anticipate what could occur. An event can be tragic and totally life-changing or just a minor shift that still makes a difference. Our personal interpretation of the event determines its impact on us, which is different for everyone.

In a flash, we acknowledge that previously held assumptions have vanished. In their place are (not necessarily better) sketchy new rules and new possibilities. Within minutes our focus sharpens as we reassess priorities. We gather up what is most dear to us, discarding hopes and assumptions that are no longer valid. We let them slip through our fingers and fall like dust to the floor. True values replace concerns, and those will see us through the challenges ahead. We hold tightly to those principles and beliefs—pressing them to the heart.

Music

Lyrics

In the course of a minute
Everything changes within it
What was given before
Just isn’t there anymore
Faded away, dust on the floor

In the blink of an eye, sometimes
Hopes are dashed or take flight
And we are left to make sense of it all
To stumble and fall
Or sweep it away, just dust on the floor

When viewed from far away
Everything looks just the same, it seems
Nothing really has changed
Details in the course of a day

Yet everything changed
Details in the course of a day
In the course of a day

Time flies, time heals
They say that time rushes by
Yet time stands still

Life crawls on, life flies by
They say that when your flame dims
Days flash before your eyes
Flash before your eyes

Knowing good from the bad
Sifting lies from the facts
What to hold to the heart
Or simply let go
Time sweeps away, dust on the floor

When viewed from far away
Everything looks just the same, it seems
Nothing really has changed
Details in the course of a day

Dedication

This story and music are dedicated to our collective ability to face the uncertainties with optimism and determination, ultimately making our best possible choices.

Credits

From album – Hold to the Heart
Track released – February 20, 2026
Cheryl Martlage – Lyrics, Vocals and Production
Emerson Martlage – Music, Guitar, Vocals and Production
Inspiration – Personal clarity
Graphics – Gemini and Canva AI

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