How Long Have You Been There
Willie Nelson · Laying My Burdens Down
I've turned away from everone and everything that wanted to be mine
Somehow I always shot my eyes and heart to everything that I could share
Now I'm standing still and I'm wondering just how long have you been there
And every path I've taken I have turned around and quickly closed the door
It seems as though I knew if I ever stop to feel I want more
I kept a steady run so my eyes could never focus anywhere
Now I'm standing still and I'm wondering just how long have you been there
How long have you been standing there protecting me from love that shouldn't be
Knowing all alone that I could realize that you were meant for me
Now I've got to mend every broken fence and bridge that I have burned
I've got to clear away the cobwebs in my heart so I can start to learn
For I realize that you've been waiting just to teach me how to care
Now I'm standing still and I'm wondering just how long have you been there
And now I'm standing still and I'm wondering just how long have you been there
How Long Have You Been There
Willie Nelson's 'How Long Have You Been There' appears on the 2015 album 'Laying My Burdens Down,' a collection of songs written for his daughter, Emma. The track exemplifies Nelson's signature blend of country storytelling and acoustic simplicity, reflecting themes of family, loss, and the passage of time. Recorded with his longtime collaborator Dolly Parton, the song captures a tender, reflective mood characteristic of Nelson's later work. It stands as a poignant addition to his extensive discography, showcasing his ability to weave personal narrative into universal emotional landscapes without relying on dramatic production. The recording reinforces his reputation as a master of the acoustic guitar and his enduring influence on the genre.