Guard it closely

So you call home for Christmas

It's for certain that they'll cross you off the list

And you can't go home and you won't stay here

Refusing to believe a single word they hear

Because after all when you break down

And your back's to the wall

You're a crisis with a backbeat

A sofa and a loveseat

And said now and then

We miss you mostly

There's an empty chair here

We guard it closely

You're so far gone

You're so unable

It's been so long

When you set the table

Don't set a place for me tonight

So we head for the coastline

Let's leave tonight

For the summer and sunshine

And everything's gonna be alright

This place is a ghost town

And the coast is clear

In a place like this

A ghost like me might find a way to disappear

Because after all when you break down

And your back's to the wall

You're a crisis with a backbeat

A sofa and a loveseat

And said now and then

We miss you mostly

There's an empty chair here

We guard it closely

You're so far gone

You're so unable

It's been so long

Before you clear the table

Raise a glass for me

Did you raise a glass for me tonight

Here's to friends and family

Here's to feelings you can't fight

Here's to comfort that you find

Here's to sleeping through the night

I'll find my way

It's the best that I can say

And said now and then

We miss you mostly

There's an empty chair here

We guard it closely

You're so far gone

You're so unable

It's been so long

So to friends and family

Could you say a prayer for me tonight