» I Always Called Him Son

I Always Called Him Son

(Jim Melko, L.B. Fred & James P. Dunne)

 

 

Fifteen years ago today

He wouldn't shake my hand

He said, "You're not my daddy"

I said "I understand"

He thought awhile, and looked at me

And then he turned away

But he said, "If you love my mama

Then I guess you'll be okay"

 

Chorus

Though I'm not the one he means when he talks about his dad

I'm the one who gave him all the things I never had

I helped him fight his battles, and I cheered him when he won

He may not call me Dad, but I always called him son

 

Seems like only yesterday

Playing baseball in the park

I recall the talks we had

As we walked home after dark

But then came angry teenage years

And our talks turned into fights

He'd say, "Don't pretend to be my dad

You don't have the right"

 

Repeat Chorus

 

And it was only just this morning that he called me on the phone

To say he had a little boy that he could call his own

 

When I got there, he was waiting

And I shook his trembling hand

He said, "It's strange to be a daddy"

I said, "I understand"

He put the baby in my arms

Just like a prize I'd won

He said, "Son, here's your daddy's dad,

And, Dad, this is my son."

 

Modified Chorus

Now I'm the one he means when he talks about his dad

'Cause I'm the one who gave him all the things I never had

I helped him fight his battles, and cheered him when he won

Now he calls me Dad, but I always called him son

 

 

© 1992 Tom Collins Music

 

Contact:

Jim Melko

2151 Crosley Court

Miamisburg, Ohio 45342

home: (937) 847-0023

   cell: (937) 657-4076