Everyday my papa would work
To try to make ends meet
To see that we would eat
Keep those shoes upon my feet

Every night my papa would take me
And tuck me in my bed
Kiss me on my head
After all my prayers were said

There were years of sadness and of tears
But through it all, together, we were strong
Times were rough, but papa, he was tough
And mama stood beside him all along

Growing up with them was easy
Time just flew on by
The years began to fly, so they aged
And so did I

I could tell that mama wasn't well
Papa knew and deep down so did she
And when she died, papa broke down and cried
All he said was: "God, why her? Take me"

Everyday he sat there sleeping
In his rocking chair
He never went upstairs
All because she wasn't there

And one day he said: "My son
I'm proud the way you've grown
Go out there on your own
I'll be alright alone

There are things that you must do
Places you must see"
His eyes were sad as he
Said goodbye to me

Everytime I kiss my children
Papa's words ring true
Your children live through you
They'll grow and leave you too

I remember every word
My papa used to say
I see my kids and pray
They think of me that way