There was a lot of optimism expressed in this poetic song written by John McRae in the fall of 1881. There is also a certain amount of understandable axe-grinding as well.

John McRae was an intelligent and well-respected man. He was a strong supporter of the temperance movement and laws. He was a highly ethical, moral and spirited man. John was the brother of my great-grandmother Nancy Ann (McRae) Fraser. 

The story of what transpired after this song was sung with gusto at the farewell gathering of neighbors, friends and family on Novembver 9, 1881 is described by his daughter Cora Mcrae Hill, in her manuscript titled, "Memories of Long Ago," which is uploaded and available on the HAGGIS database. The story is sad and disheartening. Even though John was a spiritualist, and rejected organized religion, I say, "God bless you John McRae...may you rest peacefully and eternally in Heaven."