2025 Competition Lyrics Entry:

GRATITUDE by Stephanie Jones

Lyrics

For the times when I sat on your shoulders
With the clearest view of the parade
And the days when you played in the outfield
And I brought you iced pink lemonade

And the time When I jumped in the deep end
Into your arms I wasn’t afraid
And you taught to me dive
And you taught me to drive
Gave me confidence won’t ever fade

Cause though there were hard times
I know we tried our best
To find resolution
But now you’re at rest

For all the good times we had
wouldn’t want any other
In my life to call father
So grateful for you dad

For those times when you stepped off the platform
Though the crowds of the commuter train
And the time when you sat by my bedside
Telling jokes so I’d heal from the pain

For the crosswords we solved heads together
And the dance at my wedding upstate
For the college degree
And the time you took me
To see my very first broadway play

REPEAT CHORUS

Fly be free
Watch over me
I’ll be okay
See you one day

Til then I will carry you with me
Know that I will make you proud
I’ll take care of mom
The kids and the job
And I’ll get my feet back on the ground

REPEAT CHORUS

Bio

I am a psychologist, mom of twin teenagers, and I come from an exceptionally gifted family of musicians – singers and songwriters. So, I really didn’t think I had anything to share musically. I started writing songs last year to help me cope with my Dad’s dementia, and when he passed away on Nov, 2, 2024, this song just came out. It is my eulogy in memory of my Dad.

Co-author(s)

Lyrics Competition Results

Emotional Impact:
18/ 20
Technical Skill:
13/ 20
Memorability:
13/ 20
Storytelling:
14/ 20
Imagery:
8/ 20
Total Score:
66/ 100
Commended

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