Lyrics

So many people in the world today
I was sure that I could change them all
But my blissfully ignorant naivete
Was the fastest way to take a fall
You know I used to be so condescending
If you wouldn't take a public stand
Now I know I can't go on pretending
That's a fair or just demand

Chorus
You know I tried to make a difference
That was real
But too many times when I was crushed
Beneath the wheel
Taught me the best that I can do
Is to appeal
To the better angels of our nature

I used to be convince that I was right
Looking out through a fanatic's eyes
Seeing idealistic shades of black and white
Vowing how I'd never compromise
But I burned up all my righteous anger
Many, many years ago
Now I leave it to somebody younger
Who hasn't learned the things I know

Repeat Chorus

Before you leave like some medieval gentry
Off on a fools crusade
Will you let the mystic cords of memory
Keep you from the mistakes I made

Repeat Chorus