We have developed a sort of short-hand with people we encounter. They know what to expect from us and we know that about them. In our simple routines, we meet the same people again and again. They seem to read our minds, know what we mean, anticipate our needs before we say a word.

“Trust” takes on a magical, mystical quality. “Accountability” also became important to us. We’ve come to rely on another person’s response in a given situation. As fluid and flexible as life is, as spontaneous as we want to be, we still are reassured with simple, predictible gestures.

Lyrics

Eight AM at the Blue Rock Café
Half a cup more, then I’ll be on my way
As he pours, Memo asks how I’ve been
Before I answer, he says, “Just say ‘when’”
Say ‘when’

Just say ‘when’ is how we both agree
So the two of us decide how much it’s going to be
And though I have the final say
That bargain’s made already
When he says, “Say ‘when’

Two PM my friend takes me aside
When I have the time, there’s something to confide
But I tell him we’ll have to meet again
Maybe lunch one day, he says, “Just say ‘when’”
Say ‘when’

Just say ‘when’ is how we both agree
So the two of us decide which day it’s going to be
And though I have the final say
That bargain’s made already
When he says, “Say ‘when’

And it goes without my saying
That my handshake is as good as my word
When you look in my eyes you know who I am
Just like you

One AM and I’m finally off to bed
With a million thoughts spinning in my head
After Taking stock, I’d do it all again
Trading comfort in the times we “Just say ‘when’”

That’s the way the two of us agree
If we just say when
That’s the way that we see eye to eye
If we just say when
That’s the way the bargain’s made

Just say when

Credits

From Toward the Light, track released 01 January 2008
Cheryl Martlage – Lyrics and vocals
Emerson Martlage – Music, guitar and vocals
Mr Toad’s San Francisco – Mastering
Joshua Housh – Stand-up Bass
Memo at the “Blue Rock Shoot” – Inspiration