When your momma starts to scold you
She says it's 'cause I love you, momma please don't cry
But it don't make matters better when you resemble your father
And you learn that the alimonies run dry
Momma please don't cry
You know you never asked me why
I'll wipe the tears from your eyes
And hold you like you used to hold me
So she smiles but is she happy? She smiles but she ain't happy
Sadness still glistens in her eyes
When she thinks of that man who she gave most of her life to
In her heart she feels like she would die
Momma please don't cry
You know you never asked me why
I'll wipe the tears from your eyes
And hold you like you used to hold me
So you try to console her, she sees her baby's growing older
One day you'll rise up and take your leave
Then she'll stand by the window, looking pale as a shadow
Words of love faintly echo in her ears
No no no, momma please don't cry
You know you never asked me why
I'll wipe the tears from your eyes
And hold you like you used to hold me
I said, “And momma please don't cry
You know you never asked me why
I'll wipe the tears from your eyes
And hold you like you used to hold me”