Words & Music by

Ed Bruce and Phil O'Donnell





Second day of third grade, Three Oaks Elementary

She sat in the first row, I was all the way across the room

It might as well have been the far side of the moon

I had to get her attention, she wouldn't look at me

I waited for the bell to ring, and when we went outside for recess

I put a cricket down the backside of her dress

Had to take a note home, Mama spanked my butt

Daddy hugged me, "Son, that's part of growing up"



You live and learn to give and take

When to use your strength

And when you need a gentle touch

Sometimes it takes patience

Sometimes a greater store of love

You learn it growing up



Andy was my best friend, all the way through high school

We couldn't wait for Friday night

We'd chip in change for gas in his car and roam

One night I was grounded so he went out on his own

Two o'clock in the morning, I'd just gotten to sleep

Mama took the call and woke me

"That was Andy's Daddy on the phone"

Andy missed that hairpin curve on Levee Road

Andy loved to run hard, he never buckled up

Mama held me when I cried growing up



You live and learn to give and take

When to pray for strength

When understanding's not enough

Look life in the eye

Even when the road gets rough

It's not easy growing up



I can't forget the day she called me home from work

The pains were getting closer

She said, "Hon, don't panic, but it's time to go"

We named him "Andy" for a friend I used to know

It hit me just this morning, I dropped him off at school

No great revelation

I bowed my head and thanked the Lord for all I've got

Little league and family picnics in the park

Both our folks are doing well, the circle's filling out

I treasure every moment; I'm still growing up



You live and learn to give and take

Always try to do your best

And hope that it's enough

If you don't lose the faith

You'll always find the love

It's all part of growing up