The Blue Bowl

[Verse 1]
I kept your spare key in the blue bowl by the door
Learned how your silence sounded, learned what you came here for
I made a little room each time somebody left
Now every room is crowded, and I can't find myself

[Pre-Chorus]
I gave away the good coat, the last warm plate
Stayed past the warning, called it being brave

[Chorus]
I have loved so many people empty
Now I flinch when someone holds me gently
If you say I’m worth the place I take
I hear all the promises I couldn’t make
I spent my heart like it would grow back new
Now I don’t know how to let love through

[Verse 2]
Your birthday card is folded underneath a stack
A dozen names in my old phone I never learned to call back
I was everybody’s shelter, never asked who’d let me in
Now I stand outside my own life, too tired to begin

[Pre-Chorus]
I gave the last good hour, the best I had
Made being needed feel like being glad

[Chorus]
I have loved so many people empty
Now I flinch when someone holds me gently
If you say I’m worth the place I take
I hear all the promises I couldn’t make
I spent my heart like it would grow back new
Now I don’t know how to let love through

[Breakdown]
Don’t call me generous
I was scared to be alone
I put my name beneath their needs
Then wondered why it felt like stone

[Bridge]
You can sit beside me while I learn to stay
No grand vow, no debt to pay
If I give you something, let it be the truth:
I’m still here, and I am trying to choose

[Final Chorus]
I have loved so many people empty
Still, your hand can reach me gently
Maybe I can take the place I make
Maybe I can keep the promises I make
I spent my heart; it didn’t disappear
It’s bruised, but it can still be here

[Outro]
Leave the blue bowl by the door
I don’t have to give it all anymore