This is the lesson
Taught to me
A long time ago
At my mother's knee

She said, child, someday
Someone who loves you
Will make you cry
Though he loves you
He'll hurt you til
You feel you could die

But if he says forgive me
Forgive if you can
For you are his woman
And he is your man

When you're looking for roses
There are thorns you will meet
And remember, my child
Without any thorns
The rose can't be sweet

Well it's finally happened
Now it's my turn to cry
Oh, my darling
You've hurt me
Til I feel I could die

But you're saying forgive me
And I understand
For I am your woman
And you are my man

Don't tell me about heartache
I've cried my share of tears
I've had my share of rain
But after the storm
No rain will appear

I just know when you hold me
My whole world is complete
And the lesson is clear
Without any thorns
The rose can't be sweet

The lesson is clear
Without any thorns
The rose can't be sweet