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 aint been much of a father
Son, I wish I could trun back the years


'Cause life 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 mans greatest need


The right way may not be easy
The right road aint always straight
Son, please dont follow the footsteps
That lead to where I am today


'Cause life 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