Ed Bruce Growing Up Lyrics

Growing Up Lyrics

Words & Music by



Ed Bruce and Phil O'Donnell











Second day of third grade, Three Oaks Elementary



She sat in the first row, I was all the way across the room



It might as well have been the far side of the moon



I had to get her attention, she wouldn't look at me



I waited for the bell to ring, and when we went outside for recess



I put a cricket down the backside of her dress



Had to take a note home, Mama spanked my butt



Daddy hugged me, "Son, that's part of growing up"







You live and learn to give and take



When to use your strength



And when you need a gentle touch



Sometimes it takes patience



Sometimes a greater store of love



You learn it growing up







Andy was my best friend, all the way through high school



We couldn't wait for Friday night



We'd chip in change for gas in his car and roam



One night I was grounded so he went out on his own



Two o'clock in the morning, I'd just gotten to sleep



Mama took the call and woke me



"That was Andy's Daddy on the phone"



Andy missed that hairpin curve on Levee Road



Andy loved to run hard, he never buckled up



Mama held me when I cried growing up







You live and learn to give and take



When to pray for strength



When understanding's not enough



Look life in the eye



Even when the road gets rough



It's not easy growing up







I can't forget the day she called me home from work



The pains were getting closer



She said, "Hon, don't panic, but it's time to go"



We named him "Andy" for a friend I used to know



It hit me just this morning, I dropped him off at school



No great revelation



I bowed my head and thanked the Lord for all I've got



Little league and family picnics in the park



Both our folks are doing well, the circle's filling out



I treasure every moment; I'm still growing up







You live and learn to give and take



Always try to do your best



And hope that it's enough



If you don't lose the faith



You'll always find the love



It's all part of growing up