After seventeen years behind bars
And lookin' back on his mistakes

He sat down and poured out his heart
When his son came to see him today


He spoke with a voice that trembled
Tryin' to hold back the tears
He said I ain't been much of a father

Son, I wish I could turn back the years

'Cause life's like a river

And the water is deep
Cross it with care
Or you'll end up like me

Let my mistakes
Be your steppin' stones
And walk on the rocks that I stumbled on


He said son stay away from the bottle
Watch out for the company you keep

And hold on to those you love
'Cause love is a man's greatest need


The right way may not be easy
The right road ain't always straight
Son, please don't follow the footsteps

That lead to where I am today

'Cause life's like a river

And the water is deep
Cross it with care
Or you'll end up like me

Let my mistakes
Be your steppin' stones
And walk on the rocks that I stumbled on


Walk on the rocks that I stumbled on