Does it have to be this lonely this long

Does it have to be this lonely this long?

I've let some things slip through my fingers
like so many songs and so many singers
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?

The truth comes at me in so many ways
as I keep on heading toward the end of my days
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?

Another morning alone again
with pain my companion, my friend
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?

Another friend gone, one waiting in the wings
just drinking and waiting 'til the fat lady sings
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?

I've felt so much pain and felt so much sorrow
hoping it would pass today or tomorrow
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?

At times I've felt hope and it's been fleeting at best
friends keep telling me it's only a test
only to ask over and over again
Does it have to be this lonely this long?