Mr. Altig’s Overview of the Wonderful Dharma of the Lotus Sutra

“Out of Reach” delves into the complexities of the human journey, acknowledging the inevitable struggles and suffering we encounter. It’s not a naive optimism, but rather a realistic portrayal of the challenges inherent in growth. The song suggests that often, the very things we seek – whether it’s understanding, peace, or connection – seem elusive, “out of reach.” This creates a tension that drives the narrative and resonates deeply with anyone who has faced obstacles.

However, the core message isn’t one of despair. Instead, it posits that this sense of being “out of reach” is a catalyst for transformation. It’s in the moments of feeling lost that we are compelled to search, to question, and ultimately, to discover a deeper strength within ourselves. The “light within” is not a given, but something found through the process of seeking. The song emphasizes that this journey is not always linear or easy; it involves moments of darkness and uncertainty. Yet, it is precisely through navigating these difficult times that we cultivate resilience and uncover our inner resources.

Verse 1

I see you sinking, struggling, drowning in the deep
Caught in suffering’s ocean, can’t get no sleep
I offered you a lifeline, you pushed it away
“Not now, not this, maybe some other day”
So I gotta disappear, that’s my strategic move
Sometimes absence is the only thing that proves
The value of what’s always been right in your face
Creating that void so you finally embrace

Hook

When I’m gone, that’s when you notice me (Notice me)
When I’m gone, that’s when you finally see (Finally see)
When I’m gone, that’s when you start to reach (Start to reach)
The help was always there, just out of reach

Verse 2

Your house is burning but you’re playing with the flame
Poison in your system, you don’t know who to blame
I’m like that wise physician with the remedy in hand
Stepping back so you finally understand
It ain’t about my ego or getting your respect
It’s about waking you up to what you neglect
Sometimes the teacher’s gotta exit the stage
For the student to turn to the unread page

Hook

When I’m gone, that’s when you notice me (Notice me)
When I’m gone, that’s when you finally see (Finally see)
When I’m gone, that’s when you start to reach (Start to reach)
The help was always there, just out of reach

Bridge

I never really left though (No)
I’m eternally present (Yes)
The guiding spirit flowing
Through your veins like a current
You think I disappeared (Nah)
But I’ve been here all along (Right here)
When you stopped taking things for granted
That’s when my signal got strong

Verse 3

You gotta lose me to find me, that’s the paradox
When I’m out of sight, that’s when your mind unlocks
The hidden wisdom in plain view
The path was always there, waiting on you
I’m in the silence between your thoughts
In the space where attachment gets caught
I’m in the breath that you finally notice
When suffering gets real and you lose your focus

Hook

When I’m gone, that’s when you notice me (Notice me)
When I’m gone, that’s when you finally see (Finally see)
When I’m gone, that’s when you start to reach (Start to reach)
The help was always there, just out of reach

Outro

So thank me for leaving, thank me for the space
‘Cause now you’re seeking, looking for my face
And in that seeking, you’ll find what was true:
The strength you’re looking for—that strength is you

Outro

So thank me for leaving, thank me for the space
‘Cause now you’re seeking, looking for my face
And in that seeking, you’ll find what was true:
The strength you’re looking for—that strength is you