When I was young and you were younger,

We laughed and had a grand old time.

When I was young and you were younger,

We thought we were invincible.

When I was young and you were younger,

We both had great big smiles.

When I was young and you were younger,

We gave each other hugs.

When I was young and you were younger,

We splashed and giggled and teased.

When I was young and you were younger,

We danced and played all day.

When I was young and you were younger,

We tanned out in the summer sun.

When I was young and you were younger,

We wrapped presents under the tree.

When I was young and you were younger,

We waved goodbye, said, “See you soon!”

When I was young and you were younger,

We packed up and we left.

Well, now I’m old and you’re still younger,

And I cry myself to sleep.

Now I’m old and you’re still younger,

I didn’t know—how could I?

That I’d grow up so far away,

And you would wave goodbye.

Now I’m old and you’re still younger,

You smile down on me.

Now I’m old and you’re still younger,

You are safe, out of our reach.

Now I’m old and now I’m tired,

You still laugh and play and dance.

Now I’m old and now you’re happy,

Tucked away amongst the stars.

Now I’m old and you’re at peace,

But how I miss you so,

I screamed, “It isn’t fair! It isn’t right!”

You shouldn’t have to go.

When I was young and you were sick,

I hoped you’d stay with us.

When I was young and you were dying,

I didn’t think it true.

For, when we were young,

We were invincible.

Now it seems we’re not.

Now I’m old and now I know,

That that was not the case.

When I was weak, you were so strong,

Why did you have to go?

So joyous and so full of life,

So perfect and so sweet.

Maybe you could be annoying,

If you really tried,

But all I can recall is how much fun we had.

When I was young and you were younger,

We never thought of death.

Now that you’re gone,

I know why.

If we dwell on things like death,

And drown our happy days in woe,

We will never see the sun shine

In all its fiery glow.

We will never laugh or smile,

Never play or tease,

Never splash into a big blue pool.

Or appreciate an autumn breeze.

We cannot enjoy the winter’s cold

Or feel the summer’s fire,

If we fill our heads with darkness,

And our hearts are full of cold.

I can’t hug you anymore,

Or see your beautiful smile,

Shower you with love and pranks,

And see your temper rise.

But that doesn’t mean you’re gone.

Now I’m old and you’re still younger,

And I see you in the trees,

In the snow and in the springtime,

You surround me with your love.

Arching over like a rainbow,

You bring color to the sky.

I love you and I miss you,

Now that I’m old and you’re still young.

I hope you’re watching over me.