[Verse 1]
Little hands reachin', Mama's on her own
Another night of prayers before sleep
Daddy's face on the telephone
And promises that he can't keep
[Prechorus]
Empty side of the bed, a chill in the air
But she's a fortress of strength, beyond compare
[Chorus]
Here's to the ones left behind, the silent strong
Holdin' it down while the days grow long
Raisin' the babies, payin' the bills
Climbin' the mountains, fightin' the chills
Here's to the ones left behind, the heart and soul
Makin' a family whole
[Verse 2]
He walks through the door, the kids run to meet him
A weary smile, but his eyes are bright
She sees the shadows that try to defeat him
And holds him close through the lonely night
[Prechorus]
He may wear the uniform, brave and so bold
But she's the anchor that keeps him from the cold
[Chorus]
Here's to the ones left behind, the silent strong
Holdin' it down while the days grow long
Raisin' the babies, payin' the bills
Climbin' the mountains, fightin' the chills
Here's to the ones left behind, the heart and soul
Makin' a family whole