You better sit down kids, I'll tell you why, kids
You might not understand, kids, But give it a try, kids
Now how should I put this, I've got something to say
Your mama is staying, But I'm goin' away
No, we're not mad, kids, And it's hard to say why
Your mother and I, kids, Don't see eye to eye

Say your prayers before you go to bed
Make sure you get yourself to school on time
I know you'll do the things your mother asks
She's gonna need you most to stay in line
Keep in mind your mama's gonna need
Your help a whole lot more than she ever did before
No more fightin' over little things 'cause
I won't be here to stop them anymore

I know you don't want this, But neither do we
But sometimes things happen, That we can't foresee
So try to be calm, kids, And don't look so sad
Just cause I am leavin', I'll still be your dad
But just remember I love you, And though I'm not here
Just call if you need me, I'll always be near

Say your prayers before you go to bed
Make sure you get yourself to school on time
I know you'll do the things your mother asks
She's gonna need you most to stay in line
Keep in mind your mother's gonna need
Your help a whole lot more than she ever did before
No more fightin' over little things 'cause
I won't be here to stop them anymore

Well, I have to go now, So kiss me goodbye
My eyes are just red, kids, I'm too big to cry