Lyrics Page
The Living Years
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Aug 5, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Newsboys' rendition of "The Living Years" is a reflective song about unresolved family conflict and the regret of not communicating with loved ones before they pass. The lyrics explore generational misunderstandings, the pain of missed opportunities, and the longing to reconcile. It emphasizes the importance of speaking honestly and listening while there is still time, as death ends the chance for understanding. The song carries a universal message about forgiveness and the urgency of mending relationships, touching on themes of regret, hope, and the enduring impact of family bonds.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
Every generation
Blames the one before
And all of their frustrations
Come beating on your door
I know that I�??m a prisoner
To all my Father held so dear
I know that I�??m a hostage
To all his hopes and fears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Crumpled bits of paper
Filled with imperfect thoughts
Stilted conversations
I�??m afraid that�??s all we�??ve got
You say you just don�??t see it
He says it�??s perfect sense
You just can�??t get agreement
In this present tense
We all talk a different language
Talkin�?? in defense
Say it loud, say it clear
You can listen as well as you hear
It�??s too late when we die
To admit we don�??t see eye to eye
So we open up a quarrel
Between the present and the past
We only sacrifice the future
It�??s the bitterness that lasts
So Don�??t yield to the fortunes
You sometimes see as fate
It may have a new perspective
On a different date
And if you don�??t give up, and don�??t give in
You may just be O.K.
Say it loud, say it clear
You can listen as well as you hear
It�??s too late when we die
To admit we don�??t see eye to eye
I wasn�??t there that morning
When my Father passed away
I didn�??t get to tell him
All the things I had to say
I think I caught his spirit
Later that same year
I�??m sure I heard his echo
In my baby�??s new born tears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Say it loud, say it clear
You can listen as well as you hear
It�??s too late when we die
To admit we don�??t see eye to eye
Say it loud, say it clear
Say it loud
Don�??t give up
Don�??t give in
And don�??t know what you can do next