In April 2017 Anita Pariseau performed this "Critical Karaoke," an art form combining original spoken word over a soundtrack, in front of a live audience of faculty, staff, students, and guests at Colorado College. She chose this piece of music by Mavis Staples to share an inspirational story about recovery from a traumatic brain injury and broken heart. With thanks to Professor Ryan Banagale (music) at Colorado College, along with recording studio staff Lewis Keller and Rishi Ling, who helped to recreate this intimate studio version.

God Is Not Sleeping

By Phil Roy

Performed by Mavis Staples

God is not sleeping, no

You’ve got to believe it, believe it

He’s the only one I know

never refuse me

never deceive me

In the struggles of my life

He’s right there beside me

protect me and guide me

From the hills cometh thy words

and those words live in my soul

That’s why I know, I know

God is not sleeping, no, no

You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on

Whatever your need is, hang on

God is not sleeping, oh no

In the stillness of the night

in every corner of the world

while we are sleeping

He is still working

When the prayers go up

the blessings come down

yes, He is working

He never stops working

God is not sleeping, no, no

You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on 

Whatever your dream is, hang on

God is not sleeping, no, no

Everything I have is temporary

Only love is necessary

Everything I own is temporary

Only love is necessary

Everything I have is temporary

Only love is necessary

Everything I own is temporary

Only god’s love is necessary, necessary, necessary, necessary

God is not sleeping, no, no

You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on

Whatever your need is, hang on

God is not sleeping

He’s not sleeping

God is not sleeping

God is not sleeping

God is alive, He’s alive, oh, He’s alive

God is not sleeping, no, no

In every corner of the world

While we are sleeping

He is still working