(Nickolas Ashford/Valerie Simpson) Thought I could make it Without you Thought I could walk away And never look back Thought I had the secret To stop these eyes from crying Told myself he were no good So what's the need in trying But as you see, here I am Loving you stronger than ever Promising to be better Getting into my head I don't know how To be nothing but yours I guess I should have learned From all the befores I wrote a nice long letter Explaining my reasons for leaving Hoping it would tear you apart And leave you grieving I bet you didn't even read it You're so familiar with the lines You just glanced up at the clock 'Cause you knew the exact time I'd knock Without pride Here I stand Waiting for your forgiveness This is where I belong Come what may This time I'll stay You might as well lock all the doors I guess I should have learned From all the befores Promising to be better And getting into my head I don't know how to be nothing but yours I guess I should have learned From all the befores