Always Been A Soldier

I have always been a soldier for family and company

A veteran of a thousand fights that often had the best of me

I could’ve made a fortune, I could’ve just died young

With blood and sweat, and lies and fear, I could’ve been someone

But a soldier I’ve become.

I could have been a miner, a teacher or a saint

A merchant or a senator, I could have learned to hate

I could’ve been famous, could’ve lived life on the run

With blood and sweat, and lies and fear, I could’ve been someone

But a soldier I’ve become.

A soldier’s life is simple, as simple as a war

Violence my companion, like hunger for the poor

And if you ever see me staring at the sun

Well take your plans, your lies and fears and find some place to run

For a soldier I’ve become.

So listen all you generals and captains of industry

I’ll hold to your allegiance but I will remain free

And here’s to all who think they rule through ability or right

Who will you turn to when it’s your turn to fight

For a soldier holds your might.

I have always been a soldier for family and company

I’ve held to your allegiance but I have remained free

So ask yourself, you leaders, what is it that you hold

And wonder what can be bought for a pocketful of gold

And watch out when you set a course for the setting of the sun

Be careful where you run to when it’s your turn to run

For a soldier I’ve become.

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