I Came for the Gold (PDF)

Faded photograph

In a shirt pocket, travel-worn.

On the back a treasure map

With the x-spot corner torn.

One night in a dream, I saw the missing part

Hidden in a locket laid upon her heart.

Shining symbol of

Many a miner's fevered need.

Prospecting faith, hope, and love

Made me sweat and cry and bleed.

But everything that glittered to this miner's gaze

Wasn't weighted worth committing all my days.

I came for the gold.

Deep in the heart, I discovered the vein.

I came for the gold.

True to the work and the dream I remain,

          mining the motherlode.

Providence divine

Will guide the poor fool and the sage.

That same Providence divides

Labors of love from the latest rage.

These promises and rings with which we've pledged our souls

Are purified by fire against a world gone cold.

I came for the gold.

Deep in the heart, I discovered the vein.

I came for the gold.

True to the work and the dream I remain,

          mining the motherlode.

Words & Music: Michael Cody

Publishing: Window on the West