Dear mom and dad, before you get mad Before you read it in a letter from the Board of Ed Dear mom and dad, I've been bad By the time you get this note, I will be long gone I hope that you don't lose hope and remember where you're from 'Cause I know I will It's sickening, the way they strip us of our worth I'm quickening my life to hurry up and get me in the earth The sooner the better And, papa, keep you ears open for the ringing of that phone And, mama, keep a bed for me, because someday I might be home And, sister, keep your heart open, I didn't want to leave this way I have to say, that I love you all and miss you, but I really feel I'm here to stay