It was released as a single in 1971, reaching number 4 in the UK singles chart and staying for thirteen weeks on the chart.
In My Own Time
Family Lyrics
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Try not telling too many lies
Wake up feeling, not foolish or wise
And life goes with me, no matter what size
Now some seek Jesus, of flags they can wave
Won't touch nothing, unless it's been saved
But I say your neighbor deserves much more faith
You may think I'm wasting my time
Think what you think, you know I don't mind
But if I don't pick up what you choose to find
I'll be with you in my own time
I'll be with you in my own time
Mine is my freedom you take, I'll defy
Laugh till I'm tired, sing till I cry*
Cause life is a moment you pass with a sigh
Never comes back sure as yesterday's by
I'll be with you in my own time
I'll be with you in my own time
The lyrics of "In My Own Time" by Family possess a very philosophical and existential characteristic. The song speaks of the importance of individuality and freedom, and emphasizes the need to live life according to one's own pace and beliefs. The opening lines, "Lay down easy, stars in my eyes, Try not telling too many lies, Wake up feeling, not foolish or wise, And life goes with me, no matter what size" signify the need to live peacefully with oneself, without added pressure or unnecessary pretense. The verses that follow maintain the same concept, stating that people have different beliefs and ways of worship or living; however, one's neighbor deserves more faith and respect than anything else.
The chorus, "You may think I'm wasting my time, Think what you think, you know I don't mind, But if I don't pick up what you choose to find, I'll be with you in my own time" clears the air of any misinterpretations, emphasizing that everyone can live life according to their own pace, and even if some may not understand, one must stay true to oneself. The final verses, "Mine is my freedom you take, I'll defy, Laugh till I'm tired, sing till I cry, Cause life is a moment you pass with a sigh, Never comes back sure as yesterday's by" end the song with a thought-provoking statement about the importance of cherishing everyday life and living with complete abandon.
Line by Line Meaning
Lay down easy, stars in my eyes
I am at peace with myself and everything around me, and my vision is clear like stars in the sky.
Try not telling too many lies
I believe in honesty and integrity, and I try to avoid telling falsehoods.
Wake up feeling, not foolish or wise
I wake up every morning with a blank slate, not feeling superior or inferior to anyone.
And life goes with me, no matter what size
No matter my stature or material possession, life is always with me and I am grateful for it.
Now some seek Jesus, of flags they can wave
While some people find solace in religion and make overt displays of their devotion, I do not subscribe to the same ideology.
Won't touch nothing, unless it's been saved
I do not believe in unnecessary wastage and try to conserve resources and precious heirlooms wherever possible.
But I say your neighbor deserves much more faith
I have faith in humanity and believe in the goodness of people, especially those who are close to me.
And answer to yourself when you misbehave
I hold myself accountable for my actions and try to do better when I make mistakes.
You may think I'm wasting my time
Others may not agree with my choices but I am content with them nonetheless.
Think what you think, you know I don't mind
I am comfortable with myself and do not need the validation of others.
But if I don't pick up what you choose to find
I do not follow the herd mentality but form my own opinions after careful consideration.
I'll be with you in my own time
I will arrive at a decision or destination on my own terms and in my own time.
Mine is my freedom you take, I'll defy
I strongly value my freedom and will resist anyone who tries to take it away from me.
Laugh till I'm tired, sing till I cry*
I find joy in the simple pleasures of life, and will continue to do so until I exhaust myself.
Cause life is a moment you pass with a sigh
Life is fleeting, and I aim to cherish every moment of it, even when it is over too soon.
Never comes back sure as yesterday's by
No matter how hard we try, we can never relive or recapture what is lost to the passage of time.
I'll be with you in my own time
I will join you or come to a decision, but only when I am ready and not before then.
I'll be with you in my own time
I will arrive at a decision or destination on my own terms and in my own time.
Contributed by Gabriella S. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@Krzyszczynski
No-one's ever sung like Chappo - totally unique.
@nigelhaines7900
Like Brian johnstone of acdc
@treaclebuns
This was the track that turned me on to rock and roll for good. I heard it in 1970 when I was 10 years old, it was in the UK charts then. Totally underrated band.
@chrisharro
Thanks so much for posting this clip - people (i.e. the young) don't realise that fabulous songs like this were "normal" pop music back in the early 70's. How richly we were blessed...
@davidlake540
one of the best bands there has ever been.
@andythomas706
The first two albums are both masterpieces as far as I'm concerned.
@Rankerbill1
Never heard a voice like this before or since. Brilliant Chapman
@flitwickmooney
Saw them at St.Albans Civic and this has bought a shiver to my spine.The man was barking but a genius!!
@bobgreen623
St Albans Civic, great venue. I went to a few there.
@atgf17
What a voice! Brilliant!!!