Things just ain't the way they used to be
Things I thought I remembered well look different now to me
For adult eyes can sure surprise a Childhood memory
No, things just ain't the way they used to be

The windows at the school don't seem as tall
As I remember neither do the fountains in the hall
And that fifth grade teacher wasn't terrible at all
No, things just ain't the way they used to be

The playground doesn't seem as big somehow
And I could put a ball right through the office window now
And I know now why chewing gum in school was not allowed
No, things just ain't the way they used to be

Butch Carter used to keep us kids afraid
He'd bust the lip of any kid who dared get in his way
I wish ole' Butch was standin' here in front of me today
'Cause, things just ain't the way they used to be

I wish I could have grown into the man
That I pictured as a child and filled those childhood plans
I'd do it right if only I could live my life again
But things just ain't the way they used to be

Forbidden alleys unfamiliar streets
Places mama told me I should never set my feet
Well today I know exactly where those streets and alleys lead
'Cause things just ain't the way they used to be
Buck Painter is no longer unemployed
Uncle Dick has settled down with age and rarely gets annoyed
And now I hear Butch Carter's gone to workin' for the Lord
No, things just ain't the way they used to be
No, things just ain't the way they used to be