Lyrics Page
How To Say Goodbye
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Aug 7, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Michael W. Smith's song 'How to Say Goodbye' is a tender reflection on letting go of a loved one as they move on to pursue their dreams. The lyrics capture the ache of watching time pass and the difficulty of parting, while also acknowledging the care and protection given over the years. The repeated image of standing with arms open wide suggests a posture of love and release. The song speaks to the universal experience of saying goodbye, offering a gentle, faith-filled perspective on trusting the journey ahead.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
Tell me when the time we had slipped away
Tomorrow turned to yesterday
And I don't know how
Tell me what can stop this river of tears
It's been building up for years
For this moment now
Here I stand
Arms open wide
I've held ya close
Kept ya safe
Till you could fly
Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend
And how to harness up the wind
And how to say goodbye
Tell me why
Why does following your dreams
Take you far away from me
And I knew that it would
Tell me how to fill the space you left behind
And how to laugh instead of cry
And how to say goodbye
Here I stand
Arms open wide
I've held ya close
Kept ya safe
Till you could fly
Tell me where the road ahead is gonna bend
And how to harness up the wind
And how to say goodbye