Red Flags Looked Like Roses

Verse 1 I was born with an open hand, Heart stitched up with a golden thread. I believed what people gave me, Even when the truth was dead. I made excuses out of kindness, Called the warning signs “a phase.” Had loyalty inside my bloodstream, And it blurred the liar’s face. Pre-Chorus I thought love meant standing still, Even when the ground would shake. I thought trust meant closing both my eyes, While somebody hid the blade. Chorus I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, Running deeper than my doubt. So when you looked me in the face and lied, I couldn’t figure it out. I kept hearing what I hoped you meant, Not what you didn’t say. I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, But I’m learning it can’t make you stay. Verse 2 I used to carry people’s shadows, Like they belonged to me. Turned every red flag into roses, Just to keep the peace. But betrayal has a language, And my body knew the sound. I just kept telling my own spirit, “Don’t you dare call it out.” Pre-Chorus Now I’m done confusing mercy With letting myself bleed. I can love with all my soul And still know when to leave. Chorus I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, Running deeper than my doubt. So when you looked me in the face and lied, I couldn’t figure it out. I kept hearing what I hoped you meant, Not what you didn’t say. I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, But I’m learning it can’t make you stay. Bridge My heart is not a weakness, My faith was not a crime. But I won’t hand out forever To someone stealing time. I can be soft and still be sacred, I can forgive and draw a line. Loyalty is in my blood, But discernment will be mine. Final Chorus I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, But now I’m listening to truth. If your words don’t match your footsteps, I won’t make a home in you. I can love without betraying The voice that says “walk away.” I’ve got loyalty in my DNA, But I’m loyal to me today. Outro Loyal to me today… Loyal to me today… I still love deep, but I see clear— Loyal to me today.