Ralph McTell
An Irish Blessing
How my life is changing now
My young ones start to leave their home
I wish that their uncertain road
Was one that I could tread with them

As when I walked them home from school
Or safely caught them when they fell
Or chased the demons from their dreams
With jokes and stories that I could tell

May the road rise with you
And the wind be at your back
(Go gently now into the world
Close the door and don't look back)

And now it's me who has to learn
To let you make your way alone
And try not to direct each turn
Your triumphs and mistakes your own

Your path will different be to mine
Tricks of my trade no use to you
To others and yourself be kind
Your suffering would hurt me too

May the road rise with you
And the wind be at your back
(Go gently now into the world
Close the door and don't look back)
I hear the calling of your heart
I see in your eyes that you know
To cherish it the easy part
The hardest task is letting go

But let me see you to the corner
Let me watch you down the street
And may my love be your protector
And walk with you till next we meet

May the road rise with you
And the wind be at your back
(Go gently now into the world
Close the door and don't look back)

May the road rise with you
And the wind be at your back
(Go gently now into the world
Close the door and don't look back)