Lyrics Judy Collins – Big Sur

I know this stretch of road, I’ve been here often
The ocean rolls as far as you can see
The rocky coast is misty in the sunlight
Seagulls flying low are flying free

Their wings are like my memories and desires
Spreading out to carry me along
And I remember everything that mattered
The times when I was weak instead of strong

Today the hills are restless with desire
They shudder, shaking all their blossoms free
The scent of dusty pines and Eucalyptus
Remind me of the time when I was me

I loved you like the sunlight on the ocean
Loved you like the seagulls in their flights
Loved you like the stars that shine in heaven
Loved you through the days and through the nights

I left you and the rocky coast behind me
Found a way to live without a heart
For I had left it throbbing in your keeping
And grew another, praying it would start

I hear the saints still pray along the ocean
I see the padres walking in the dawn
The bells of Capistrano ring to call them
To pray for us and sing their ancient song

Please pray for me you padres of the ocean
Pray I find my heart among the waves
For freedom’s left one panting for the bondage
And you can see the light beyond the grave

I loved you like the sunlight on the ocean
Loved you like the seagulls in their flights

I know this stretch of road, I’ve been here often
The ocean rolls as far as you can see
The rocky coast is misty in the sunlight
Seagulls flying low are flying free