When I Say I'm a Christian

I have been a lover of the work of Maya Angelou since junior high school when I first discovered her wonderful words.  Who among us was not moved sometime around the seventh grade by I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings?  As I've grown up, I purposefully echo in my mind the words of Phenomenal Woman and find strength in Still I Rise whether I deserve to or not.  When I Say I'm a Christian, however, was new to me until today, and it put into words sentiment I'm far to inadequate as a writer to think of myself.  Don't stop me even if you've heard this one.  

When I Say I'm a Christian

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost, now I'm found and forgiven."
 

When I say, "I am a Christian," I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ 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 need His strength to carry on.
 

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.
 

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.
 

When I say, "I am a Christian," I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.
 

When I say, "I am a Christian," I'm not holier than thou.
I'm just a simple sinner who received God's good grace, somehow.

Maya Angelou