Born in the mountain
Fifty years ago
Trod the hills and valleys
Through the rain and snow
Seen the lightning flashing
Heard the thunder roll

I've endured
I've endured
How long can one endure?

Now, barefoot in the summer
On into the fall
Too many mouths to feed
They couldn't clothe us all
Sent to church on Sunday
To learn the Golden Rule

I've endured
I've endured
How long can one endure?

Now, I've worked for the rich
I've livеd with the poor
I've seen many a heartachе
There'll be many a more
Lived, loved, and sorrowed
Been to success's door
I've endured
I've endured
How long can one endure?

I've endured
I've endured
How long can a man endure?