Don't Follow in My Footsteps

Sometimes even mothers make mistakes
And I've made my share
Though I swear I've tried to be the best I can be
But sometimes I forget that you are always there
Like a video camera
Always watching me

Think about your ever-loving mother as a
Luminous example
Just cause I've an appetite for heartache doesn't mean
You need a sample
I'm counting on you to exercise good solid judgement
Totally different from mine
Don't follow in my footsteps
And you're gonna be fine

You want me to watch your ev'ry movement and expect
Me to ignore you?

You can go and make your own mistakes or you can let
Me make them for you
Whenever you see me go down in flames ask the question
Why put my hand in the fire?
Don't follow in my footsteps
These are words to inspire

Do as I say not as I do
Just to spare the lion's share of what I've been through
Just remember everything that I did wrong
I did it all wrong for you
Who?
You?
Oh
How would you react if I decided to grow up to be a
Dancer?
I would prob'bly ground you till you're fifty while
I thought about the answer
I wanna make my life on the stage just like you did

Find an original sin
Don't pick up any dance steps
Don't pick up any actors
Don't follow in my footsteps
That's a place to begin

Now and then you've caught me with a cigarette
While wheezing hard and choking

Mom, I got the message
That's why I decided to quit smoking
Whenever I'm in a moment
Of doubt, I remember
Mom's an infallible guide
Don't follow in her footsteps
And you'll fill me with pride

Moms have got it rough but if you really want a
Challenge
Be a daughter
It's about as hard as walking on or
Breathing under water
Where do you find a kid who'll just do what
She's told to?
Ripley's believe it or not

Don't
Follow in my footsteps
You'll
Miss a lot of potholes
You'll
Make it though the minefield
It's your very best shot
So thank your loving momma
Who did it all wrong for you
She's a perfect example
The key to exactly what not to do