[Intro] Yeah… Hawkins PD. Lock your doors. Listen close. [Verse 1] Got a badge, a bottle, and a past I don’t discuss Small-town sheriff but the world still fucks with us Vietnam scars, nightmares never let me sleep Lost my kid once, now the dark runs deep Town full of secrets, lies under the soil Kids fighting demons while the suits play coy I don’t want hero shit, I just want peace But the walls start bleeding and the rules increase Radio crackle, upside-down sky Something in the woods and it ain’t gonna die Government vans think they run this land But I’ve buried more truth than they’ll understand [Hook] Don’t be stupid — rules keep you alive Close the damn door, don’t wander outside I don’t say it ‘cause I like control I say it ‘cause I’ve seen what eats your soul Don’t be stupid — listen when I say Monsters don’t care if you’re brave If I sound harsh, it’s ‘cause I’ve been through hell I’m trying to save you, can’t you tell? [Verse 2] Found a girl with powers and a shaved head Taught her what a family is instead Eggos on the plate, teach her how to trust Show her how to live, not just how to crush Punch first instinct, anger like a flame But love made me more than just my name Every threat personal, every loss hits home I’d burn the world down to protect my own Demogorgons, Russians, gates in the floor I keep a bat ready right next to the door I don’t need medals, don’t need applause Just keep the kids safe — that’s the cause [Hook] Don’t be stupid — rules keep you breathing Curfews matter when the dark starts seething I don’t care if you think I’m cruel Survival ain’t gentle, it’s rule by rule Don’t be stupid — stay where I said I’ve held too many bodies, too many dead If I raise my voice, it’s fear, not pride I’m scared of losing you — that’s the side I hide [Bridge] Letter in my pocket, words I never read Feelings locked up tighter than the shed If I don’t make it back, remember this truth I learned how to hope because of you [Verse 3] Walked into fire with a key in my hand Countdown screaming, end of the plan Smiling through pain ‘cause that’s what dads do If this is goodbye, I’ll die standing true I ain’t perfect, I’m damaged goods But I stood tall when no one else would From Hawkins streets to the red-lit gate I choose love even when it’s too late [Outro] So when I say rules… It ain’t about control. It’s about coming home alive. Don’t be stupid.

Don't Be Stupid Rules (Jim Hopper)