I’ll Take This Life Instead

[Verse 1]
I keep a list of things to fix
In the margin of my notebook
That old green coat, the chipped front tooth
The way I lose my place mid-sentence

[Pre-Chorus]
There you are, a step ahead
Perfect posture, perfect plans
I run hard, you turn your head
I laugh and let you pass

[Chorus]
I’m still here, I’m still here
With my crooked little compass
I can love the road I’m on
Even when I’m not the best one
I’m still here, I’m still here
All my rough edges come with me
That better me can race ahead
I’ll take this life instead

[Verse 2]
Burnt toast, late bus, rain on my sleeve
I make a joke and miss the cue
Some days I’m brave, some days I leave
A half-done list beside the sink

[Pre-Chorus]
There you are, a step ahead
Never tired, never unsure
I wave you on, then breathe again
I don’t have to win that race

[Chorus]
I’m still here, I’m still here
With my crooked little compass
I can love the road I’m on
Even when I’m not the best one
I’m still here, I’m still here
All my rough edges come with me
That better me can race ahead
I’ll take this life instead

[Bridge]
Let the mirror keep its measuring
Let the morning find me late
I can hold the parts I’m changing
And the parts I’ll always make

[Final Chorus]
I’m still here, I’m still here
With my crooked little compass
I can love the road I’m on
Even when I’m not the best one
I’m still here, I’m still here
All my rough edges come with me
That better me can race ahead
I’ll take this life instead

[Outro]
I’ll take this life instead