(Nickolas Ashford/Valerie Simpson)

Thought I could make it
Without you
Thought I could walk away
And never look back

Thought I had the secret
To stop these eyes from crying
Told myself he were no good
So what's the need in trying

But as you see, here I am
Loving you stronger than ever
Promising to be better
Getting into my head
I don't know how
To be nothing but yours

I guess I should have learned
From all the befores

I wrote a nice long letter
Explaining my reasons for leaving
Hoping it would tear you apart
And leave you grieving

I bet you didn't even read it
You're so familiar with the lines
You just glanced up at the clock
'Cause you knew the exact time I'd knock

Without pride
Here I stand
Waiting for your forgiveness
This is where I belong
Come what may
This time I'll stay
You might as well lock all the doors

I guess I should have learned
From all the befores

Promising to be better
And getting into my head
I don't know how to be nothing but yours

I guess I should have learned
From all the befores