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