Within

Surrounded by pain with nothing to soothe me
Putting on a jazz record hoping it'd move me
Few things in life go smoothly, I still maintain
There are plenty of reasons for me to remain
Pain crowds my senses during times of need
Somehow I find ways to stay and never concede

Nobody wants to hear you complain anymore
Lasting for many years, you will for many more
Rummage through your soul, find that strength
To buck all problems, increase your life's length
They won't doubt someone refusing to surrender
They'll let them enjoy every bit of life's splendor

There were times I questioned my place here
Wondering if anyone wanted my face here
Years passed, my flame flickered and persisted
Negative influences were hidden and resisted
Before the overwhelming hurt can begin
Hold on, be strong, and look within