I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you,
I'm watching you fly away, but keeping you close,
I can't help but cry a little, Heaven knows,
I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you go.

Though Mom says I spoil you, here's a little something for spending,
Please come home real often...often and soon,
Would you think of us as foolish if we do some pretending by leaving your light on, here in your room'

I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you go,
I'm watching you fly away, but keeping you close,
I can't help but cry a little, Heaven knows,
I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you go.

Drive slow on the freeways, call first thing when you get there,
You know me, how I worry; I'll be up most the night,
And if you need anything, baby, you know we'll both be here,
In the meantime, we're praying that your future is bright.

Oh, I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you,
I'm watching you fly away, but keeping you close,
I can't help but cry a little, Heaven knows,
I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you.

Where's that princess in a party dress'
Now she's a young lady with dreams,
Fly away butterfly on the wind, taking wings,
The first time that I held you, child, you forever changed my soul,
And I'm holding you now because I want you to know.

I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you,
I'm watching you fly away, but keeping you close,
I can't help but cry a little, Heaven knows,
I'm setting you free, but I'm not letting you.