Lyrics and Credits for “Sideways” (2022) by Abbie Sawyer

Sideways

I remember going sideways I remember going down

Searching for a something that’d tie me to the ground

I’d give up any thrill for less of the spills

Of composure of the way it used to be

Wondering what became of me

It started when I listened to what others had to say

But only in catchphrases and snippets far away

I wasn’t reaching out and I wasn’t reaching in

As the tears flowed from eye to cheek to chin

Wondering where I’d ever begin

Looking in the mirror didn’t recognize that face

More than tired lines identity displaced

A wild unfamiliar look in her eyes

Wondering when she can take off the disguise

Knowing what her heart would reply

I can feel it beating in there safe and warm

Yes I have a heart and I’ll tell you what it’s for

To sense what’s going on to reach out for a cause

Love myself not put my life on pause

Even when I’m scared and lost

So can we hold the mothers like we hold the babes

Allow them to be still and allow them to change

To give the gift of time and give the gift of rest

Because life’s not meant to be a test

It’s a chance to show the hearts in our chest

Song Credits

Abbie Sawyer: piano and vocals

Patrick Riley: violin, viola, cello and string arrangement

Bryan Vanderpool: upright bass