Ayiesha Woods ‘The Runway Project’

Written by: Laura Chambers (1/30/2017)

Everybody needs an anthem. A song to sing to get you through one more day of slogging through the valley. It doesn’t matter whether you’re facing the music for your past failings or making a comeback after being knocked down. Resetting your attitude via the truths encapsulated within a song may take a few spins to do, but it’s worth it. If you’re looking for some new choices, Ayiesha Woods’ latest EP The Runway Project may be a good place to begin.

“Humbling” hearkens back to a moment of discouragement, with a surprising message for our low points. Though it may seem like the perfect time to give up, we need to see it as the lesson it is. Woods adds a bit of island flavour to the truth Paul’s thorn taught him. With the imagery of an airplane ride, “Runway” takes off into the wild blue narrow road, ready for anything the journey brings.  We can’t let our fears keep us from getting onboard with God’s plans.  “Jesus Lovin’ People” introduces Christians as imperfect people who love others as they have been loved by Jesus.  It’s a cheery, hopeful song that counters the mistaken impression that we’ve suddenly got all the answers – rather, we know where to find the answers and who to trust in. “Hope Again” is a testimony to God’s ability to answer our doubts at the right time. It’s only when we stop and really look at our circumstances that we see how He’s been in it all. He refills our reserve of hope and love when it goes dry.

The slow jazzy strains of “Perfect” tells the story of a romance that goes deeper, having survived obstacles that others deemed insurmountable. By trusting in God, love can survive any trial and become an example of what’s possible in Christ. “Don’t Miss Me” calls us to stand up for ourselves rather than letting rejection lie to and label us as failures. The song doesn’t expressly mention God, but does promote our seeing ourselves in a positive, capable light. A shot in the arm, whether you’re looking for a job at a fast food joint or auditioning for a record company. “This Side of Life” takes the form of a half-solemn, half-joyous oath to live an earthly life with no limits or regrets. Woods recognizes that we don’t know how much time we have, so our actions should be with one goal in mind; live for God.

If you’re looking for inspiration, spend a few moments in the company of Ayiesha Woods. The Runway Project offers you a ticket to a new perspective, so grab your passport and throw caution to the wind, trusting in God to carry you all the way to your destination.

3/5