He's got no business leaving at such an early age
Can't even balance his checkbook
Look at him he's staring down that road
Like he can't wait to get away
& he won't even give 'em a last look
Brother's kicking gravel like it's no big deal
Momma's on the front porch crying
Dad says, "come on girl, he's got a date with the world
And it's just two less eggs to be frying"

(Chorus)
The way it was explained to me
History repeats history
Don't you know living is a lot like flying
You either do it or die trying

He wound up in the army where they cut off all his hair
Gave him some boots and said, "shine 'em"
He said, "sir I don't understand
Where's the enemy?"
He said, "look in the mirror you'll find him"
Right shoulder left shoulder come on soldier boy
What's the matter, kid, can't you take it?
Call your momma on the phone or write a letter back home
Tell 'em all you ain't man enought to make it

(Chorus)
…do it or die

(Spoken)
Well, the years roll by like years do
Hanging on to anything that'll pull him through
Minimum wage rattles his cage
Now, he's fighting back at middle age
& he finds he's more than a link in the chain
He's been dragging

(Chorus)
…do it or die