In a far-off land across the ocean
In one of the states of America
A single mother lived with her child
Their days were filled with happiness.
But it so happened the mother fell ill
And left in peace to be with the Lord.
Her little daughter was left an orphan
And lived alone in the world.
O Mother, Mother, she cried out loud,
Why have you left me all alone?
There is no one else who could love
And caress me, like you did.
The little child got her belongings
And to the station she took a trip.
She quietly got on the train
And no one stopped her from getting on.
But a conductor came in the cabin
And checked the tickets of everyone,
He came up to the little child
And asked to see her ticket.
Where are you going, my little child?
And tell me, where is your home?
And where is your mother?
And show me, where is your ticket?
I do not have a home here,
I’m going to my mother in heaven,
Where there will be happiness forever,
Sorrow and pain is all forgotten.
Where did you learn all about this,
That there’s a road to heaven?
My mother told me all about this,
When she was still living on this earth.
[Translated by Paul J. Wigowsky]