Update: For those who read this before, I have corrected the poem. The incorrect version is stated to be by Maya Angelou. The actual poem is written by Carol Wimmer. You can read the history on her site as well as Urban Legends.
Here is the original version:
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost! That’s why I chose this way”
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble-needing God to be my guide
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak and pray for strength to carry on
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed and cannot ever pay the debt
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible but God believes I’m worth it
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache which is why I seek His name
When I say, “I am a Christian,” I do not wish to judge
I have no authority–I only know I’m loved
Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer
Maya Angelou,
I am doing a Freshman Composition paper on your life and background. I just have one question, if you could go back and change something you did or said in your past would you? If so, what would it be? If not, why?
Thank You so very much, you are an inspiration to me!
Alicia Fronefeld
The poem on your webpage is great! However, it has been circulating on the internet in various forms and, I believe, wrongly attributed to Maya Angelou. You can check it out on http://www.snopes.com or http://www.carolwimmer.com/poem.cfm
Thanks for bringing this to my notice Stephens.
This post has been updated…
That was a nice poem to begin the day with. Thanks for offering it.
Great poem really enjoyed it.
Thanks for sharing it with the world.
JL