My brother Sam and I have collaborated on several songs together. They are imperfect but perfectly ours, and working on them has been a sweet and bonding time for Sam and me.

Tonight I needed to write something for a writing group I host, so I quickly penned a first draft of a song. I sent it to Sam and he said, “What kind of beat or groove should it have?” I said, “I think it’s pure country but I’m open to whatever you think.”

We’ll see if anything comes together with these lyrics as the beginning. Whatever the case, it’s fun to play with rhyme and a feeling and see where it goes.

The song is below. If Sam puts it to music, then I’ll share that at some time in the future.

”You’re Better Than This”

I went to a bar and ordered a drink
I saw a pretty woman dressed all in pink
I felt that yearning deep down inside
Then said to myself, “It’ll be easy to hide.” 

I felt that old pull to say hello
But knew if I did I’d feel so low
How could I face my wife again
Pretending to hide my worn-out sin
 
She was a good women, through and through
But she was tired of feeling blue
And I knew she deserved a man she could trust
Not someone like me, driven by lust

I said to myself deep down in my heart
You’re better than this, don’t fall apart
Just walk on out and go to a meeting
Save yourself from all this cheating

So, I left my drink at the bar
Headed outside to my car
Saw the moon shining bright in the sky
And knew tonight I would not lie

I’d drive right over and air my temptation
Knowing the truth would bring consolation
Then I’d go home and kiss my wife
And thank the Lord for my good life

You’re better than this, don’t be afraid
Don’t build up a debt that goes unpaid
Just walk on out and go to a meeting
Save yourself from all that cheating

You’re better than this.