The Gown Hangs Ready on the Door

Lyrics

The gown hangs ready on the door
Pressed the way her grandma taught
A cap beside it on the floor
Everything her four years brought
I stand here in the hall light's glow
Her father's watch tick-tocks along
There's so much that I want her to know
And nothing that could say it strong

Walk on, my girl, the stage is yours
Take the steps the way you came
Every one of those closed doors
Opened up to speak your name
I won't say much, I'll hold your hand
I'll clap until my palms are sore
The gown hangs ready on the door
And the morning's waiting for you more

I remember when you were small
Your shoes were laced the wrong way round
You'd climb the stairs and never fall
Singing sweetly without a sound
Now books are stacked and lamps are low
You've spent your nights in work and rhyme
A quiet pride begins to grow
That I have saved for such a time

Walk on, my girl, the stage is yours
Take the steps the way you came
Every one of those closed doors
Opened up to speak your name
I won't say much, I'll hold your hand
I'll clap until my palms are sore
The gown hangs ready on the door
And the morning's waiting for you more

Let the hall be loud and wide
I'll be sitting by your side
Hear the band begin to play
This is your and mine, your day

Walk on, my girl, the stage is yours
Take the steps the way you came
Every one of those closed doors
Opened up to speak your name
I won't say much, I'll hold your hand
I'll clap until my palms are sore
The gown hangs ready on the door
And the morning's waiting for you more

The morning's waiting for you