Lyrics

When I was a child, I was free and wild—mother took care of me.
I found some toys to feel the joys that father never seemed to see.
But as I grew the joy I knew spilled out of my cup.
I realized the tears I cried was the price of growing up.
So I swallowed all my tears and tried to stand up tall,
Tried to face my fears while trying not to fall.
I knew the world’s fate, I came to understand,
Teetered on the edge, but not yet in my hands.

I finished school. I learned the rules, and set out on my own.
I met my wife—the love of my life, together we made a home.
As time went by, I heard a child cry, and my role was not the same.
My folks got old, and their heavy load, was transferred to my name.
So, I carried the weight and put it on my back.
I put my dreams away to take care of the pack.
I knew the world’s fate, I came to understand,
Teetered on the edge, I held it in my hands.

I’m older now, I don’t know how the years went by so fast.
You all are grown, with kids of your own--I hope that you can make it last.
Now I know that you are ready for the truth, my time of teaching’s done.
And I’ll send you on with a baton—now it’s your race to run.
So, race along the track and let love lead the way
Try not to look back, try not to go astray
You know the world’s fate, I hope you understand,
Teeters on the edge, you hold it in your hands.