The clock upon the mantlepiece is slowin’ down its chime
I sit here by the window, watchin’ the endless march of time
The skin upon my weary hands is thin as ancient lace
But in my heart, there is a quiet, comfortable space.
I hear the whispers of the wind, I see the setting sun
And know the journey’s nearing its final, faithful run.
And when that shadow comes to call, I won’t hold my breath or scream
I’ve seen everything, everything that life could dream.
When that old, dark figure stands right here, by my easy chair
I will rise and nod my head, like he’s an old friend there.
I’ve had the love I needed in my life, and then some more,
So there’s no fear left knocking on my closing door.
There were moments on the crooked path, where I wished I’d turned aside
Chosen a different door, a place I could have hidden and complied.
Maybe saved a stumble, maybe spared a tear or two
But lookin’ back, the tapestry is clear, and rings so true.
Every twist, every struggle, every golden, perfect day
It had to happen just like that, to bring me where I lay.
And when that shadow comes to call, I won’t hold my breath or scream
I’ve seen everything, everything that life could dream.
When that old, dark figure stands right here, by my easy chair
I will rise and nod my head, like he’s an old friend there.
I’ve had the love I needed in my life, and then some more,
So there’s no fear left knocking on my closing door.
I feel the earth beneath my feet, the sun upon my face
Grateful for this lonely, final, quiet, sacred place.
He holds out his hand, no cloak of fright, no judging gaze
Just silent understanding in these final, fading days.
Take my hand, old friend, the long day is done.
Yes, take my hand, the victory is won.
APWBD2000
