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Long ago, I painted a portrait of you in my heart
This portrait I cherished whenever we were apart
with you portrait near
I waited patiently from year to year
And with that woman by you side
you destroyed my self-pride

It was clear to all that knew
that this portrait was not the real you
but to them I closed my eyes
and called them all a bunch of lies
There was no doubt in my mind

that they would realize in time
that this portrait portrayed the real you
and give credit where credit is due

Sitting alone and lonely one day
with you and that woman miles away
Something strange happened to me
hit with a pain so strong
I screamed "no, this can not be"
Like a ton of bricks from out of space
reality slapped me in the face

Taken by surprise was I
to see your portrait change before my eyes
from a loving, caring, and honest man
to a lying, deceitful person with a fork in his hand
Now I must apologize
to those who was so wise
Because they could see at first sight
my portrait of you was not right

But now they all agree
and oh how clearly do I see
that finally without a doubt
this is the real "Portrait of you"

For a moment I sat and cried
for letting you destroy my self-pride
then I wiped my eyes and smiled
and began to laugh and laugh and laugh
Because, as sure as the sky is blue
I am so glad to be rid of you

My Portrait of You
1990

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