This Side or the Other

You may blossom and your arms may spread out wide
Or they may cross your chest, protecting what's inside
And you can always cross your fingers
But don't ever tell yourself your hands are tied
Your hands aren't tied

For any glimmer in your eye may fade in time
That scar you wear may be a well-worn sign of wisdom
And the surest course may turn on a dime
Heads or tails, one side or the other

You may lose your way amidst a crowd of people
Or you may find yourself alone one winter day
And you may search in vain for answers
But don't you ever hang your head and walk away
Don't walk away

For the lights left on for you won't always shine
The signs you read may point you in the wrong direction
There will be barricades across the broadest avenues
And we'll find ourselves on one side or another
Yes, we'll find ourselves - on one side or another

Someday you'll find warmth again beside the fire
Through pain and doubt, you will learn and persevere
Someday brothers will again embrace their brothers
And I'll see you again on this side or the other
Yes, I'll see you again, on this side or the other