you don't have to be a turtle

so you've left your heart wide open
and the going's getting rough
you've spent your whole life hoping
someday you'll be good enough
to find someone who loves you
who's always thinking of you
I know it's natural to be afraid
but now it's time to see some changes made

          you don't have to be a turtle
          but you need a shell
          to protect you from
          rejection
          you know, love's the highest hurdle
          so respect yourself
          take care of your heart

now you are close to transparent
with nothing up your sleeve
by now, it's probably apparent
it's damn near time to leave
but there's someone out there
but life is never about fair
you just gotta keep on trying
and you'll get there -- there's no denying

         you don't have to be a turtle
          but you need a shell
          to protect you from
          rejection
          you know, love's the highest hurdle
          so respect yourself
          take care of your heart

I know it's hard now
but if you're willing to start now
you won't be standing apart now
love's gonna come your way

         you don't have to be a turtle
          but you need a shell
          to protect you from
          rejection
          you know, love's the highest hurdle
          so respect yourself
          take care of your heart