A Return Date on Willow Stationery

[Intro]

[Verse 1]

For the first time a saddle rests against my shoulder

The flags atop the city walls are dyed into flames by the setting sun

In my youth I imagined distant lands as bright and open

And carefully pack your reminders into my traveling bag

[Pre-Chorus]

After the bugle there is still a letter from home

Saying spring will be waiting at the door

[Chorus]

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

Ask it to tell you I am safe

Even the far-traveling wind hopes to turn homeward

Being brave does not mean hiding all your tenderness

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

May every departure lead to a reunion

[Instrumental Interlude]

[Verse 2]

The campfire slowly warms the night with light

In the starlight, I know the way home

The long road ahead still needs to be walked with care

Yet the longing in my heart has never wandered far

[Pre-Chorus]

After the bugle there is still a letter from home

Saying spring will be waiting at the door

[Chorus]

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

Ask it to tell you I am safe

Even the far-traveling wind hopes to turn homeward

Being brave does not mean hiding all your tenderness

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

May every departure lead to a reunion

[Bridge]

What we guard is more than borders drawn on paper

It is also that peaceful face beneath the lamp

May every gust of wind and flurry of snow I pass through

May they add a little warmth to the days that follow

[Final Chorus]

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

Ask it to tell you I am safe

Even the far-traveling wind hopes to turn homeward

Being brave does not mean hiding all your tenderness

I gently write my return date for the willow leaves

May every departure lead to a reunion

[Outro]

When fresh green by the river spreads over the long embankment again

I will return with stories and walk into your gaze