Tonight they’re shutting down the borders
And they boarded up the schools
Small towns are rolling up their sidewalks
One last paycheck coming through
I know you’re feeling kind of nervous
We’re all a little bit confused
Nothing’s the same, this ain’t a game
We got to make it through
As we wave outside the window
Older loved ones stay inside
Moms and babies blowing kisses
May be saving someone’s life
They had to cancel graduation
It ain’t fair to Skype the prom
Our kids sit home in isolation
TV news is always on
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
This ain’t my prayer, it’s just a thought
I’m wanting to send
‘Round here we bend but don’t break
Down here we all understand
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
The chicken farm from Arkansas
Bought workers PPE
Not before 500 more
Had succumbed to this disease
Honest men and honest women
Working for an honest wage
I got a hundred point one fever
And we still got bills to pay
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
This ain’t my prayer, it’s just a thought
I’m wanting to send
‘Round here we bend but don’t break
Down here we all understand
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
They built a hospital on East Meadow
In Central Park last night
Doctors, nurses, truckers, grocery store
Clerks manning the front lines
I saw a Red Cross on the Hudson
They turned off the Broadway lights
Another ambulance screams by
There by the grace of God go I
Although I’ll keep my social distance
What this world needs is a hug
Until we find the vaccination
There’s no substitute for love
So love yourself and love your family
Love your neighbor and your friend
Ain’t it time we loved a stranger?
They’re just a friend you ain’t met yet
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
This ain’t my prayer, it’s just a thought
I’m wanting to send
‘Round here we bend but don’t break
Down here we all understand
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
When you can’t do what you do
You do what you can
Finding Hope in Uncertain Times
“Do What You Can” by Bon Jovi is a heartfelt reflection on the collective struggles faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lyrics paint vivid scenes of everyday life turned upside-down—shuttered schools, canceled graduations, and families separated for safety. Bon Jovi captures both the anxiety and resilience of communities, emphasizing the power of compassion and adaptability in challenging times. The recurring message, “When you can’t do what you do, you do what you can,” serves as an uplifting reminder that small acts of kindness and perseverance matter, even when the world feels uncertain.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Jon Bon Jovi, John Shanks
Release Year: 2020
Label: Island Records