You were a rose among tulips
Long in bloom before your time
Born in shadows, but couldn't hide, oh
You were a flower in the brambles
Weathered storms, you made your stand
By flourishing in a long cold night
You took the sting of change
Took the cold of winter punches and the pain
So I could breathe a little clearer
Thank you for the long road you paved
So I'm saved
Swimming in your wake
Following in footsteps
Gratefully awake
I take the baton that's left
I promise I'll honor you for my walk
Echoes of a time that I won't know
Of a time when a wild rose
Had no place to grow
You didn't have a right to choose
Didn't have a light to lose
Yet you lit your fire anyway
And now I hold my breath
For all the fires out there
Struggling and oppressed
Sending out a night flare
One day the battles will be won
Not long
I'm standing in the steps
Already been taken
I'll walk the mile that's left
So you won't be forsaken
Thank you for the long road you paved
So I'm saved
Thank you