"To My Daughter" lyrics

I know the time will come when you'll be taken from me
I've watched you growing up with every passing day
I know the time will come, for life will soon demand it
When you will find someone who'll take you far away

And you will never see the sadness in my smile
Your eyes will overflow with happiness and tears
No, you will never see the shadow in my heart
As I watch fall to earth the spring of all my years
And I'll conceal the pain beneath a father's pride
While in the silent church together side by side

Each measured step would bring me closer to the time
You'll say the simple words and I'll be left in sorrow
For what is mine today will never see tomorrow
I'll have to step aside for someone I don't know
When all is said and done, he'll lead and you will follow
While through the stain-glass window, I'll watch my daughter go

I know the time will come, you'll blossom ever gently
One day from innocence to woman wordly-wise
I know the time will come, one unexpected moment
The dawn of life anew will waken in your eyes

For he will come along with all his boyish charms
He'll take your heart away, and leave me empty arms
And I will rue this day, this day he comes to you
With promises of love to make your dreams come true
And though he takes our name, and gives you his instead
He'll never know the times I stood before your bed

Already I despise this stranger with no face
But, if he'll bring you joy, my heart to him I'll render
I'll give to him your hand, our name I will surrender
Yes, I will do all this because I love you so
And as I see you now, sweet child so softly sleeping
Your youth a moment's keeping, the time has come I know