Lean on Me
William Becton & Friends Lyrics

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Sometimes in our lives
We all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tomorrow

[Chorus]
Lean on me, when you're not strong

And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on

Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you won't let show

You just call on me brother, when you need a hand (Chorus)
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand
We all need somebody to lean on

Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you won't let show

[Chorus]

If there is a load you have to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me

[Chorus]

Call me (if you need a friend)
Call me (call me)
Call me (if you need a friend)
Call me (if you ever need a friend)
Call me (call me)

Call me
Call me (if you need a friend)

Overall Meaning

The song "Lean on Me" by William Becton & Friends is a classic that speaks to the human experience of pain, sorrow, and the need for support from others. The first verse acknowledges that everyone experiences pain and sorrow, but that wisdom can help us remember that tomorrow is a new day and a new opportunity to move forward. The chorus then encourages us to lean on others, especially when we are not strong, when we need help to carry on. The singer offers himself as a friend and ally who can provide support and comfort in our time of need.

The second verse reminds us to swallow our pride and recognize when we need to ask for help. In these moments, we should not be afraid to reach out to others, even if it means admitting that we have needs that we cannot meet on our own. The chorus then repeats, emphasizing the message of the entire song once more. The final verse reiterates the singer's availability to help bear our burdens and encourages us to call him if we ever need a friend. The song speaks to our shared humanity, the reality of our need for one another, and the power of vulnerability and connection.

Line by Line Meaning

Sometimes in our lives
Occasionally during our lifetime

We all have pain
Every one of us experiences discomfort

We all have sorrow
We all feel grief

But if we are wise
However, if we are intelligent

We know that there's always tomorrow
We recognize that there is always a future

Lean on me, when you're not strong
Rely on me for help when you feel weak

And I'll be your friend
I will be your companion

I'll help you carry on
I'll assist you in continuing

For it won't be long
Because it will shortly come to pass

'Til I'm gonna need
Until I also require

Somebody to lean on
Someone to offer me support