Life and Times

How do we all end up where we do?
When do we decide; can you give me a clue?
Who decides our fate of mystical mirth:
In great quantity or a feeble dearth?

I wish I could know just how the wind blows
How many times I squish sand with my toes
I'm sick of surprise with no demise these days
I'm distraught at what's wrought through the increasing haze

I find the changes in society pathetic
I know that one day our parents will regret it
Pull your thumb out your ass and raise your kid right
Stop blaming TV and music; it's your fight

Keep on hating and jading the young
Why won't you realize this fight can't be won
Go ahead: create a world of the apathetic
We'll run the world down so you know we've had it

Tell me what to feel; I'm afraid I've stopped trying
Teach me what is real; I can't tell who's lying
Am I the young man people say I am?
Am I the boy who hasn't caught the ploy?

What could I have been if I'd walked my own path?
What would I fear if I believed in God's wrath?
How many things could I have grown up to be?
How many places would I have traveled to see?

What am I supposed to be?
How do I know if I'm really me?
How would I have grown without your direction?
How would I have grown without your oppression?