Nothing Weighs Me Down

The Story of “ Nada me Pesa”: A Song Born in Joy

Unlike many hymns that emerge from solemn reflection, Nada me Pesa was born in the middle of life—amid laughter, movement, and the daily rhythm of service. Its origins come from the Jesuit volunteer communities, where young men and women work side by side, dedicating themselves to education, social work, and pastoral care.

After a long day of working in the fields alongside local farmers—helping plant crops, share meals, and build homes— smiling covered in dust and sweat, these words are a natural feeling of joy:

“Nada me pesa, todo es don,

sirvo con gozo, sigo Tu voz.” 

The words come naturally, almost like a sigh of contentment. The simplicity of the lyrics capture what they all feel at that moment: the work had been hard, but their hearts were light.

It is meant to serve Jesuit novices in formation, who can hum it during morning prayers or after long days of study. And its melody can be adapted to fit the musical traditions of the communities they serve. Regardless of if it’s played with Andean flutes or Afro-Caribbean rhythms, the message remains unchanged: poverty, when embraced as a gift, becomes a source of joy.

How the Community Perceives It

For Jesuits, Nada me Pesa is more than a song—it is an expression of their spirituality in its most joyful form. Unlike hymns that focus on sacrifice or renunciation, this song sings of abundance, of the wealth found in a life dedicated to service. It is ideal for mission send-offs, as young Jesuits prepare to embark on journeys to unknown places, reminding them that what they leave behind is nothing compared to what they will gain in love and faith.

Among lay communities, the song appeals for its simplicity and warmth. It is easy to sing at gatherings where people come together to work for the common good—whether preparing meals for the hungry, building homes, or teaching children. The rhythm invites movement, clapping, even dancing, making it as much a celebration as it is a prayer.

The words take on new meaning depending on where they are sung—sometimes as a challenge, sometimes as a reminder, always as a source of strength.

In communities where the struggle for justice is ongoing, the song serves as a defiant anthem: poverty does not define dignity, and true wealth is found in love and solidarity. In homes and parishes, it is a song of gratitude, recognizing that everything is gift.

Final Reflection

Perhaps the reason Nada me Pesa resonates so deeply is that it captures a fundamental truth: when we give ourselves freely, we carry no burden. It is not a song of resignation, but of liberation. No one claims to have written it, because in a way, everyone has. It belongs to the mission, to the streets, to the hands that serve and the hearts that trust.

And as long as there are those willing to walk lightly, with open hands and joyful hearts, Nada me Pesa will be sung—wherever there is love, wherever there is service, wherever God’s presence is found in the simple, the humble, and the free.

With energy and warmth, reflecting the lightness and joy that comes from living in freedom through service. The rhythm is upbeat yet fluid, allowing the melody to carry a sense of movement—like someone walking with purpose, unburdened by possessions, yet filled with love. A blend of Latin folk influences, with acoustic guitar, rhythmic hand percussion, and melodic bass, gives the song an organic and communal feel.

The lead vocal is expressive and heartfelt, conveying sincerity and gratitude. The melody feels like an invitation—encouraging all who hear it to join in the joy of self-giving. Harmonies are warm and dynamic, rising in key moments like the chorus and bridge, mirroring the communal nature of the Jesuit mission. The outro feels celebratory, as if the singer is walking away, still singing, carrying the message beyond the music itself.

This song is not a lament, nor a quiet meditation—it is a declaration of joy, a hymn to the beauty of a life lived with open hands. It is sung with a smile, with the conviction that in giving, we receive far more than we could ever hold.

“Nada me Pesa”

[Intro]

 Nada me pesa, todo es don,

 sirvo con gozo, sigo Tu voz.

 Libre en la gracia, doy sin temor,

 en cada hermano encuentro Tu amor.

[Verso 1]

 No hay tesoro más verdadero,

 que dar la vida con un corazón sincero.

 Las manos abiertas, sin retener,

 son manos que sirven y saben creer.

[Coro]

 Voy ligero, sigo el llamado,

 con alegría, siempre a Tu lado.

 Dejo todo y gano más,

 en el servicio hay libertad.

[Puente]

 Donde hay herida, quiero sanar,

 donde hay tristeza, quiero abrazar.

 No poseer, sino entregar,

 pues solo en el dar se aprende a amar.

[Outro]

 Nada me pesa, todo es don,

 sirvo cantando, sigo Tu son.

 Sin poseer, lo tengo todo,

 porque el servir es oro.

Nothing Weighs Me Down (Nada me Pesa)
(By Anonymous)

[Intro]

Nothing weighs me down, all is gift,

I serve with joy, I follow Your voice.

Free in grace, I give without fear,

In every brother, I find Your love.

[Verse 1]

There is no treasure more true and bright

Than giving my life with a heart of light.

With open hands, I choose to share,

Hands that serve and know how to care.

[Chorus]

I walk lightly, I heed the call,

With joy, Lord, I give my all.

I leave behind and gain much more,

For in service, I am truly free.

[Bridge]

Where there is pain, I long to heal,

Where there is sorrow, love reveals.

Not to possess, but to let go,

For only in giving, love will grow.

[Outro]

Nothing weighs me down, all is gift,

I serve with song, I follow Your rhythm.

Owning nothing, yet having all,

For in service, I find my gold.