The Southern Way, my family roots
All loved ones gave so much
Such lessons learned, on life's good fruits
Taught with a simple touch

A gravel road, an old homestead
And on the porch, a swing
'n country cookin', all well-fed
Old gospel songs, we'd sing

The hills and hollers, to my eyes
A heavenly terrain.
Where cattle graze beneath blue skies
Beside a bending lane

The coldest water from a well
Oak bucket used to draw
Then granddad rested for a spell
With 'backy in his jaw

A gathering place, the courthouse square
Where farmers had a yarn
'bout how their crop was doin' fair
Work needed on the barn

These memories are just a start
For many do I hold.
A culture loved, it is a part
Of me, it's treasured gold

My heart belongs to Tennessee
Although I'm from up north
Imbued with love, serenity
Her beauty calls me forth