(song) I WONDER

I WONDER

Oh, I wonder how the old folks are tonight?
And I wonder if Papa is still alright?
And I guess by now they know
As they watch the falling snow
That I won't be coming home tonight.

Today I helped the Warden trim the tree
And I watched while others hugged their family
I cried through out mail call
Saw a child kiss her doll
And thought of home and all it meant to me.

"I didn't mean to hurt him, don't you see?"
That Judge just frowned and took a look at me
With trembling knees I told
How at just 18 years old
The story all the town just couldn't believe!

"The gun went off so fast!" I said to him
"But I'm not sorry now and wasn't then.
He left me all alone
Said "Now you're on your own!"
And yes Sir, I'd do it all again."

Oh, I wonder how the old folks are tonight?
And I wish these jeans did not fit me so tight!
Another month to go
Before I start to show
And they find out just why I never write.

I saw the CHAIR today, Lord, what a sight!
The Chaplain prayed aloud with all his might
But one week from today
When they put me away
I'll wonder how the old folks are tonight.

And I'll worry if Papa is still alright
'Cuz I guess by then they'll know
As they watch the falling snow
That I will be coming home tonight.

Yes, folks, my ashes will be back tonight.