Lex Zaleta

Lyrics

WHAT HAVE I DONE? (A BIRTHDAY SONG)

I have worked on rooftops
And down in the coal mines.
I’ve worked in body shops
And painted highway lines.

I’ve labored in the field
And in an office space.
My skin burned and then peeled;
Some mistakes don’t erase.

One more quick revolution
Around the sun,
And I stop to ask myself,
“What have I done?”

I’ve taught in the classroom
And learned on the outside.
I shook hands with the groom
While I kissed his sweet bride.

I’ve fought many battles;
Been a peacekeeper too.
Cleaned blood from the saddles
Of those who died for you.

One more quick revolution
Around the sun,
And I stop to ask myself,
“What have I done?”

I’ve whistled while I’ve worked,
And I’ve cursed the smug boss;
And oftentimes I’ve lurked
On the wrong side of loss.

I’ve been a true leader;
Faithful follower too.
I’ve filled the bird feeder
When I needed snowshoes.

One more quick revolution
Around the sun,
And I stop to ask myself,
“What have I done?”

I’ve prayed in the churches;
Found the Truth and the Way.
Read Robert Frost’s “Birches”
To my children at play.

I’ve stolen from no one;
I’ve never asked for much.
Now my life’s almost done,
And I’m losing my touch.

One more quick revolution
Around the sun,
And I stop to ask myself,
“What have I done?”

Copyright © 2003 Lex Zaleta