It's been a long time coming But I know you are the one Here at home at last the days have ceased It's been a long time coming And I know we've just begun All the pain has passed and there is peace If the breath was warm and tender Now the breath becomes a yawn And I've been returned to sender And I'm better since I'm gone It's been a long time coming But I know you are the one Here with time erased I'm at my best It's been a long time coming And I know we've just begun Without a pretty face I can just rest But the march is still ongoing I can hear the drummers roll And it can't show signs of slowing It is too dear It's my soul It's been a long time coming But I know you are the one Here at home at last the days have ceased It's been a long time coming And I know we've just begun All the pain has passed and there is peace (For Gladd Patterson 1931-2003)