[Intro (fingerpicking, creek sounds)] [Verse 1 (intimate, solo vocal)] Walked into the forest carrying her weight Every harsh word, every closed gate Knelt beside the water, let it speak Watched the current smooth the stones beneath my feet [Verse 2 (harmony enters gently)] The creek don't hold onto yesterday's rain Just lets it flow on through without complaint It carves around the obstacles it finds Teaches patience to my troubled mind [Chorus (warm, full)] The creek runs clear after the storm Washes away what doesn't serve anymore If water can release and still move on Then maybe I can sing a different song The creek runs clear [Verse 3] She wanted me murky, clouded up with doubt But the forest showed me what truth's about You can't build a life on muddy ground Sometimes the best thing's letting go of what you found [Chorus (building)] The creek runs clear after the storm Washes away what doesn't serve anymore If water can release and still move on Then maybe I can sing a different song The creek runs clear [Bridge (stripped, contemplative)] Sat there till the sun began to set First time in months without regret [Instrumental Break (resonator guitar, cello drone)] [Final Chorus (full, resolved)] The creek runs clear after the storm Washes away what doesn't serve anymore If water can release and still move on Then I can sing a brand new song The creek runs clear [Outro (fading with creek sounds)] Running clear... finding my way...
