(John E. Swaim)

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...''