Through many years of change I've stood,
Seeing many creatures live and die.
Yet I'm dissatisfied and sigh
To sprout wings like eagles and fly.
But as I'm a tree of the wood,
I must watch all the world go by.

I have seen children grow from babes,
Now grown, with children of their own.
I've heard my dear friends moan and groan,
Crashing to earth, forever gone
Without a farewell or goodbye.
But still I watch the world go by.

Men have lived and died in my time,
Accomplishing many great things,
Enabling freedom to ring.
Other men who became cruel beings
Let tyranny reign over all.
Yet still I watch the world go by.

One day my turn will also come,
To join my brethren and die.
It lets me bid the earth goodbye,
I have no wish to death defy;
I'll leave this earth to praise my God,
And no more watch this world go by.