2025 Competition Lyrics Entry:

Threadbare by Brian Spahr

Lyrics

VERSE 1
After way too many winters
My wool is wearing thin
I’m patched up, frayed, uncomfortable
Barely keep the cold from coming in
But do you see the quiet pull?
The tension tugging at my seams?
Do all my threads bear witness that,
My life is in its final scene

VERSE 2
I wrapped you up in comfort
We weathered wind and change
I shielded you in every storm
I softened all your bitter days.
My pockets hold your calloused hands
They’re full of grief and memories
I held on to you with every thread,
Now you’re the one who’s holding me

CHORUS
We’ve shared the warmth of love so long,
That’s why I sing my threadbare song.
Though I will fade, I’ll stay with you,
Until my seams unravel too

VERSE 3
I hold you in my weakened arms,
Your laughter in my threads
We dance with one last autumn breeze
There’s no more words left to be said
Each scuff and tear, a badge of love,
Each fray, a mark of battles won.
As my fabric turns to dust,
I mourn the days I’ll miss to come.

CHORUS
We’ve shared the warmth of love so long,
That’s why I sing my threadbare song.
Though I will fade, I’ll stay with you,
Until my seams unravel too
Until my living days are through

OUTRO
So fold me up when I am gone,
Let every stitch still sing our song.
For in your warmth, my purpose stays—
a legacy of love, remains.

Author

Bio

Brian Spahr is a husband, a dad, a musician, a pastor, and a former hospital chaplain. He lives in Fort Wayne, IN, where he drinks LOTS of coffee and dreams up creative ways to create and hold sacred space for people in their struggles, hurts, and grief through songs, stories, and spiritual practice.

Co-author(s)

Lyrics Competition Results

Emotional Impact:
18/ 20
Technical Skill:
15/ 20
Memorability:
16/ 20
Storytelling:
20/ 20
Imagery:
18/ 20
Total Score:
87/ 100
Commended

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