05 — WHAT YOUR CHILDREN HEAR Voice: Confucius, imagined through practiced responsibility [Style: Storytelling Americana; steady acoustic pulse, piano, brushes, close harmony. 82 BPM, D major.] [Verse 1] He told his boy to speak the truth, Then lied about the change. He said respect your elders, Called his mother quite a name. The boy was by the doorway, Quiet as a winter tree. We teach beyond the lesson When we think nobody sees. [Chorus] It’s what your children hear When you think the room is empty. It’s how you hold your temper, How you share when there is plenty. Every promise needs a body, Every kindness needs a hand. Build tomorrow in the kitchen; That’s where children understand. [Verse 2] The boss says, “We’re a family,” Then forgets the worker’s pay. The mayor makes a speech on care And looks the other way. Big words need little faithful things: A wage, a call returned. When you make mistakes, admit them; Let repair be something learned. [Bridge] I was wrong, and you were watching. Come and sit beside me, son. We’ll begin with my apology; There’s some work that must be done. [Final chorus — repeat] [Outro] Set the table. Keep your word.
