After seventeen years behind bars

And lookin back on his mistakes

He sat down and poured out his heart

When hsi 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 fo the company you keep

And hold on to those you love

Cause 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