we first met in a crowded hall on graduation day,   she signed my paper, smiled at me, and walked away.   then we met in an empty hall the size of my lonely heart,   optimism called my bluff and that dream fell apart.      now i’ve been told,   if you’re in love then go ahead   but ever since, i sing instead.      many times i’ve bet my pride and ventured to the door,   and though i’ve failed i’ll here confide, i wish to seek once more,   i’m lonely and i need a hand to help me through the day   and with her strength, i’d rise and stand – so help me lord, i pray      now i’ve been told,   if you’re in love then go ahead   but ever since, i sing instead.