When I was young looking for some fun, a mistake boy did I make

I remember that store and the mask that I wore, and the words the owner did take;

"Someone's going to pay for what happened here, I sure as hell know

no way you will get away with this, if you think you can just go"....

So now I did my time and took what's mine, that crime was long ago

I paid my dime and let that be a sign, for society to finally let go

No more running and no more hiding, I'm just going to stop right in here

I made mistakes and suffered my aches, now leave me to drown in my beer

Now I'm out, no longer so stout, just happy to breathe some fresh air

but as I walk the street a free man, I still seem to get that stare

As an older man now, I don't know how, I will never be able to adjust

then my inner soul told me so, for my mission I know I now must

Doing that crime was never fine, and I'm ashamed for all that took place

but now I am free, and truly want to be, a part of society's race

I'll get a job and rap with those kids and beg them to remember

nothing in this world that has any meaning, if you're not going to be a member

Although the day is short, the hour is late, suffice it for me to say

that fatal mistake you're about to make, the rest of your life you shall pay

The one way out, perhaps your last bout, may still be found if you can cope

find a true friend, to give you his hand, to teach you this prayer called HOPE.....