Stronger Than I Look

[Verse 1]
You can fix that fence at dawn
You can hold this house together
You can work till your hands are gone
And laugh about the weather
You can take it like a man
That’s what they keep sayin’
But when the long day’s over
Who’s gonna hold your aching
[Chorus]
What’s a man
If he can’t fall apart sometimes
Why can’t a man cry
When his heart’s on the line
Don’t let “I’m tired” stop you
From laying your burden down
You are breaking
But you’re strong enough
To let those tears hit the ground
[Verse 2]
Daddy said, “Son, stand tall
Don’t you ever show your weakness”
So I built up these walls
Brick by silent brickness
But love keeps knocking holes
Through everything I’m guarding
Every “I’m fine” I ever told
Feels heavier each morning
[Chorus]
What’s a man
If he can’t fall apart sometimes
Why can’t a man cry
When his heart’s on the line
Don’t let “I’m tired” stop you
From laying your burden down
You are breaking
But you’re strong enough
To let those tears hit the ground
[Bridge]
I’m tired, but I’m strong (oh Lord)
Strong enough to say I’m scared
Strong enough to say “I’m wrong”
Strong enough to be laid bare
If loving you means losing pride
Then let it go, let it slide
[Chorus]
What’s a man
If he can’t fall apart sometimes
Why can’t a man cry
When his heart’s on the line
Don’t let “I’m tired” stop you
From laying your burden down
You are tired
But you’re strong, my friend
Let those tears hit the ground

country, Lean country-soul ballad with male vocals, brushed kit and warm upright bass; verses ride a gentle guitar groove and organ pad, chorus swells with gospel-style harmonies and a pleading slide line, ending on a hushed, intimate tag that leaves the last word hanging, strong, soul