Things just ain't the way they used to be

Things I thought I remembered well look different now to me

For adult eyes can sure surprise a Childhood memory

No, things just ain't the way they used to be



The windows at the school don't seem as tall

As I remember neither do the fountains in the hall

And that fifth grade teacher wasn't terrible at all

No, things just ain't the way they used to be



The playground doesn't seem as big somehow

And I could put a ball right through the office window now

And I know now why chewing gum in school was not allowed

No, things just ain't the way they used to be



Butch Carter used to keep us kids afraid

He'd bust the lip of any kid who dared get in his way

I wish ole' Butch was standin' here in front of me today

'Cause, things just ain't the way they used to be



I wish I could have grown into the man

That I pictured as a child and filled those childhood plans

I'd do it right if only I could live my life again

But things just ain't the way they used to be



Forbidden alleys unfamiliar streets, 

Places mama told me I should never set my feet

Well today I know exactly where those streets and alleys lead

'Cause things just ain't the way they used to be



Buck Painter is no longer unemployed, 

Uncle Dick has settled down with age and rarely gets annoyed

And now I hear Butch Carter's gone to workin' for the Lord

No, things just ain't the way they used to be

No, things just ain't the way they used to be