You better sit down kids, I'll tell you why, kids

You might not understand, kids, But give it a try, kids

Now how should I put this, I've got something to say

Your mama is staying, But I'm goin' away

No, we're not mad, kids, And it's hard to say why

Your mother and I, kids, Don't see eye to eye



Say your prayers before you go to bed

Make sure you get yourself to school on time

I know you'll do the things your mother asks

She's gonna need you most to stay in line

Keep in mind your mama's gonna need

Your help a whole lot more than she ever did before

No more fightin' over little things 'cause

I won't be here to stop them anymore



I know you don't want this, But neither do we

But sometimes things happen, That we can't foresee

So try to be calm, kids, And don't look so sad

Just cause I am leavin', I'll still be your dad

But just remember I love you, And though I'm not here

Just call if you need me, I'll always be near



Say your prayers before you go to bed

Make sure you get yourself to school on time

I know you'll do the things your mother asks

She's gonna need you most to stay in line

Keep in mind your mother's gonna need

Your help a whole lot more than she ever did before

No more fightin' over little things 'cause

I won't be here to stop them anymore



Well, I have to go now, So kiss me goodbye

My eyes are just red, kids, I'm too big to cry