Baby born in New York City
Wrapped in a blanket that's tattered and worn
Mother done the best she can
Picking hope in a hopeless world

Elder son, he stayed in school
He listened to his mother
Didn't drink or use
Yet every job he wants, he gets refused
It takes hope in a hopeless world

Looking for hope in a hopeless world
Searching for love in such hateful times
Trying to stay strong while my mind gets weak
Looking for hope in a hopeless world
Looking for hope

On a corner stands a young girl
The home she left was from the better part of town
Her daddy did things she just can't talk about
Is there hope in a hopeless world?

You got a quarter for the homeless man
Can you spare more change for the soldiers who fought the war?
Put some money in those hats and those tins

Give them hope in a hopeless world

Looking for hope in a hopeless world
Trying to find love in such hateful times
Looking for hope in a hopeless world
To ease my mind, ease my mind

You got to listen to the voice inside
That speaks of love, don't compromise
Realize time is passing you by
Mountains to climb
Can't be standing still
Don't be standing still

Church is full but the prayers don't seem to be heard
Saturday's child don't want to go to Sunday school
What ever happened to the golden rule
Teach them hope in a hopeless world

Somebody out there's got to listen
Somebody out there's got to know what I'm talking about now
Raise your hand, raise your hand if you're with me
Give them hope in a hopeless world