I've just begun to understand
I'm twenty-three and in my hand
I hold responsibility to my friends and my family
I've just begun to understand
This boy is going to be a man

This life, you'll see
That nothing's gonna come for free
This life, you'll find
That nothing's gonna change my mind
Tonight

I've just begun to know for sure
I'm thirty-three and in my store
I stock the shelves with dignity for myself
And my community
I've just begun to know for sure
That girl deserves a whole lot more

I leave it up to you
I don't know what to do
I leave it in your hands

I've just begun to understand
I'm forty-three, I own this land
I share responsibility with my wife for our posterity
I've just begun to understand
What it means to be a working man

This life, you'll see
That nothing's gonna come for free
This life, you'll find
Just looking; for some peace of mind
Tonight