[Verse 1]
Dear Graciela, I'm writing this letter
Deep in the night and I'm all alone
It's nearly breaking my heart to tell you
I'm so far away from home
I know I said I'd never cross the border
I know I promised to return to you
But I lost my job in the maquiladora
What's a simple man to do?

[Verse 2]
I met a man in Tijuana
Said he had a job for me to do
Standing on a corner in San Diego
A pocketful of red balloons
All I wanted was a little money
All I needed was a week or two
I never even saw the police coming
What's a simple man to do?

[Verse 3]
Tell my mama that I said I'm sorry
I know she didn't bring me up this way
Ask if she could light a candle for me
Pray that I'll come home someday
Oh Graciela, won't you please forgive me?
I never meant to bring this shame to you
I lost my job in the maquiladora
What's a simple man to do?