Back Then

There's a kid in that old photograph
Blue jeans torn and a cowboy hat
Running wild through the pasture grass
If I could reach him now at last
I'd tell that boy what I know today
'Bout the roads that lead you far away
From the church bells ringing Sunday morning
When mama sang without a warning

Hey there, back then boy
Don't be in such a hurry
Life's gonna teach you joy
But first it's gonna bury
All those dreams you're holding tight
In the dust of Texas nights
Hey there, back then boy
Take your time

You think you know what love's about
Till she breaks your heart and walks right out
That first kiss underneath the stars
Won't prepare you for the scars
But don't you worry 'bout the pain
It's gonna wash you clean like spring rain
And when you find the one who stays
You'll thank God for all those days

Hey there, back then boy
Don't be in such a hurry
Life's gonna teach you joy
But first it's gonna bury
All those dreams you're holding tight
In the dust of Texas nights
Hey there, back then boy
Take your time

The preacher man was right, you know
Faith will help you as you grow
Through the valleys and the hills
Trust his love, trust his will

Now I'm standing where you used to be
Looking back at seventeen
If these old words could somehow reach
That stubborn kid I used to be
I'd say hold tight to mama's hand
She won't be here to understand
All the choices that you'll make
But love her for love's sake

Hey there, back then boy
Don't be in such a hurry
Life's gonna teach you joy
But first it's gonna bury
All those dreams you're holding tight
In the dust of Texas nights
Hey there, back then boy
Take your time

Take your time, back then boy
Take your time