To my daughter

I know the time will come

When you'll be taken from me

I've watched you growing up

With every passing day.

I know the time will come

For life will soon demand it

When you will find someone

Who'll take you far away.

And you will never see

The sadness in my smile

Your eyes will overflow

With happiness and tears

No you will never see

The shadow in my heart

As I watch fall to earth

The spring of all my years.

And I'll conceal the pain

Beneath a father's pride

While in the silent church

Together side by side.

Each measured step would bring me

Closer to the time

You'll say the simple words

And I'll be left in sorrow.

For what is mine today

Will never see tomorrow

I'll have to step aside

For someone I don't know.

When all is said and done

He'll lead and you will follow

While through the stained glass window

I'll watch my daughter go.

I know the time will come

You'll blossom ever gently

One day from innocence

To woman worldly wise.

I know the time will come

One unexpected moment

The dawn of life anew

Will awaken in your eyes.

For he will come along

With all his boyish charms

He'll take your heart away

And leave me empty arms.

And I will rue this day

This day he comes to you

With promises of love

To make your dreams come true.

And though he takes our name

And gives you his instead

He'll never know the times

I stood beside your bed.

Already I despise this stranger

With no face

But if he'll bring you joy

My heart to him I'll render.

I'll give to him your hand

Our name I will surrender

Yes, I will do all this

Because I love you so.

And as I see you now

Sweet child so softly sleeping

Your youth a moment's keeping

The time has come I know.