Baby born in New York City
Wrapped in a blanket all tattered and worn
Mama's doin' the best she can
It takes hope in a hopeless world

Her eldest son, he stayed in school
Listened to his mother, he never drank or used
But every job he wants he gets refused
It takes hope in a hopeless world

Looking for hope in a hopeless world
Trying to find love in these hateful times
Try to stay strong but my mind is weak
Looking for hope in a hopeless world

Churches are full, but the prayers are not heard
Saturday's child don't want to to go to Sunday school
Whatever happened to the golden rule
It takes hope in a hopeless world

D'you got a quarter for the homeless man
Spare some change for the soldiers who fought the war
Put a little money in those hats and those tins
Give them hope in a hopeless world

Looking for hope in a hopeless world
Searchin' for love in these hateful times
Try to stay strong but my mind is weak
Ease my mind, ease my mind

And on the corner there stands a young girl
The home she left was in the better part of town
Daddy did things she never talked about
It takes hope in a hopeless world

Somebody out there gotta listen
Somebody out there got to know what Pops been talkin' about
Raise your hand, raise your hands if you're with me
Give us hope in a hopeless world

You've got to listen to the voice inside
Peace and love don't compromise, realize
Time is passing by
Can't be standing still!