Waylon Jennings wrote the song "For the Kids" as a heartfelt expression of the struggles and sacrifices parents go through during a divorce or separation. The lyrics depict the narrator's dedication to their children and their commitment to doing whatever it takes to ensure their well-being, even if it means enduring personal pain. The song recognizes the difficulties faced by both parents and children in the process of divorce. The phrase "You work like a slave for the kids" acknowledges the heavy burden parents bear, working tirelessly to provide for their children's needs. The line "And I'd go to my grave for the kids" emphasizes the deep love and commitment the narrator has for their children, willing to go to any extent to protect them. The lyrics also touch upon the inevitable fading of love that may accompany a difficult marital situation. The line "But we watched our love fade as we suffered that state" highlights the emotional toll the relationship took on the couple, despite their initial intentions of staying together for the sake of the kids. Jennings acknowledges the impact divorce has on children, calling it a curse. However, the narrator believes that their children are strong enough to navigate these challenges. They understand that it won't be an easy journey for the kids, but they hope that their resilience will guide them through the tough times. The emotional weight of the song intensifies when the lyrics address the pain and tears shed for the kids. The narrator acknowledges that not all the tears are specifically for the children, but also for the loss of their own relationship. However, they recognize that their ex-partner may not care about their emotional turmoil, as the only love left is the love that they share for their kids. The song ends on a bittersweet note, with the narrator expressing the hope that their former partner will find a new love who will be good to the kids. Yet, they make it clear that if this new love fails to treat the children with care, the narrator will be there to protect them. Through "For the Kids," Waylon Jennings conveys the complexity of emotions faced by parents going through a divorce. He explores the love, dedication, pain, and hope they experience as they prioritize their children's well-being above everything else.
