Lyrics Page

I'll Carry On

By Rich Mullins

1,356 views Jul 15, 2026 updated Verified editorial review

Rich Mullins's song 'Carry On' reflects on the journey of life, carrying forward the songs and scars of the past while facing an uncertain future. The lyrics speak of leaving home, saying goodbye to loved ones, and the bittersweet nature of pursuing dreams. There is a sense of resilience and commitment to pray for family and to persevere despite the fear of never returning home. The song touches on themes of legacy, memory, and the strength found in carrying on through life's challenges, with an underlying trust in God's guidance.

Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team

Momma, I've got two strong hands.

And they're fine as far as hands go

I can shoulder the future, I can face the wind

For the dream that I must follow

It's a dream that can kill with its beauty

It's a hurt that can heal with its pain

And with all of these miles that lie before me

I may never get home again


But I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on, I'll carry on


I kissed the earth on my daddy's grave

Said goodbye to my brave young companions

But when they hoist that sail I know my heart will break

As bright and as fine as the morning

I don't know where this road will take me

But they say there's a place there for a man

And I'm only afraid that my dreams may betray me

And I'll never get home again


But I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

And I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on, I'll carry on


And oh, I can shoulder the future, I can brave the wind

Oh, we go on, we go on, but we never get home again


So I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on, I'll carry on


And I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on (I'll carry on)


I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this (promise you this)

I'll carry on (I'll carry on)


I'll carry the songs I learned when we were kids

I'll carry the scars of generations gone by

I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on


And I'll carry the songs (carry the songs)

And I'll carry the scars (carry the scars)

And I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on


And I'll carry the songs (carry the songs)

And I'll carry the scars (carry the scars)

And I'll pray for you always, and I promise you this

I'll carry on, I'll carry on

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