Didn't I raise my voice
High enough for you
I was running like a fugitive all the time
Risking rejection from my own people, yeah
Now that you got what you wanted
You don't even know my name
It's so funny, we don't talk anymore
Be good to the people on your way up the ladder
'Cause you'll need them on your way down
That's the way it is (the way it is)
♪
That's the way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is, oh no (the way it is)
♪
Didn't I raise my fists high enough for you
I guess I can pat myself on the shoulder
For a job well done
Dodging bullets in the streets, I was there
Risking rejection from my own people
Now that you got what you wanted
You don't even know my name
Remember
Be good to the people on your way up the ladder
'Cause you'll need them on your way down
That's the way it is (the way it is)

The way it is, yeah (the way it is)
That's the way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is (the way it is)
And that's the way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is (the way it is)
♪
That's the way it is (the way it is)
♪
The way it is (the way it is)
That's the way it is
Be good to the people on your way up the ladder
'Cause you'll need them on your way down
That's the way it is, oh no (the way it is)
♪
That's the way it is
Be good to the people on your way up the ladder
'Cause you'll need them on your way down
That's the way it is (the way it is)
♪
That's the way it is
Be good to the people on your way up the ladder
'Cause you'll need them on your way down