I've just begun to understand

I'm twenty-three and in my hand

I hold responsibility to my friends and my family

I've just begun to understand

This boy is going to be a man



This life, you'll see

That nothing's gonna come for free

This life, you'll find

That nothing's gonna change my mind

Tonight



I've just begun to know for sure

I'm thirty-three and in my store

I stock the shelves with dignity for myself

And my community

I've just begun to know for sure

That girl deserves a whole lot more



I leave it up to you

I don't know what to do

I leave it in your hands



I've just begun to understand

I'm forty-three, I own this land

I share responsibility with my wife for our posterity

I've just begun to understand

What it means to be a working man



This life, you'll see

That nothing's gonna come for free

This life, you'll find

Just looking; for some peace of mind

Tonight