Walking Up Hills Both Ways

Grandpa used to tell me 'bout the trials of the good 'ol days
Breaking backs in the blistering sun or in the downpour of the rain
There was never one doubt in his integrity
He'd say a dollar saved is a dollar made
Sometimes life is sacrifice
Seems you're walking up hills both ways

Must've been about seventeen
When I came to understand
There aren't any shortcuts to becoming an honest man
Now and then, I think about him and all the things he'd used to say
Keep your head up high
When you walk don't fall
When you're walking up hills both ways

Tireless years of sweat and tears cut across his weathered hands
A record of life's accomplishments were contributions to who I am
Didn't make much since when I was young
But there's clarity with age
Don't back down from life's challenges
When you're walking up hills both ways

His word and handshake were always good
Never settled for second best
Made damn sure his work was done
Rarely took time to rest
Even in his later years, he gave his all each and every day
You wouldn't see him cutting corners
Walking up hills both ways

Tireless years of sweat and tears cut across his weathered hands
A record of life's accomplishments were contributions to who I am
Didn't make much since when I was young
But there's clarity with age
Don't back down from life's challenges
When you're walking up hills both ways
Don't back down from life's challenges
When you're walking up hills both ways