While the Fire Holds One Coal

Lyrics

[Verse 1] By the hearth the embers settle, Snow leans softly on the door. You fold my wool around my shoulders, Like you’ve done a thousand storms before. [Pre-Chorus] Your hands are cracked from winter, Still they find my face. I hear the old house breathing, And the wind beyond the gate. [Chorus] Mama, don’t close your eyes, Stay until the morning finds us. Tell me once the river thaws, Tell me spring will come behind us. Mama, don’t close your eyes, Let me keep your hand in mine. While the fire holds one coal, We are not alone tonight. [Verse 2] There’s a little wooden horse you carved, Its legs are worn and smooth. I keep it near the window ledge, Where the first pale snow comes through. [Pre-Chorus] You say the dark is only weather, Passing over hill and pine. So I count your quiet breaths, And borrow strength from every one. [Chorus] Mama, don’t close your eyes, Stay until the morning finds us. Tell me once the river thaws, Tell me spring will come behind us. Mama, don’t close your eyes, Let me keep your hand in mine. While the fire holds one coal, We are not alone tonight. [Bridge] If the dawn comes cold and colorless, I will make the kettle sing. I will lay your cloak beside you, I will wait for birds in spring. [Final Chorus] Mama, you may close your eyes, I will keep the embers guarded. When the river breaks its ice, I’ll tell you how the green returned. Mama, rest your tired hands, I will hold the morning line. While the fire holds one coal, You are safe here through the night. [Outro] Snow leans softly on the door. I’ll be here when morning comes.