So long I have sorrowfully labored To lead a life none would choose One repulsive to all my brothers Destined for everyone’s respect to lose
By all considered a traitor and evil I have given up all righteousness Sacrifices all self-respect to live To feed my loved ones I ask forgiveness
In captivity I do the work of captors Sadly I am their hands and voice Demanding and collecting tribute To feed my own I have no choice
I was weak and gave in to this role Needing to do whatever I so could To survive and keep my humble home I lost self-respect as I never should
But oh it was a desperate choice One which would save me from a fall This life brought me ridicule and hate Yet one for which I gave up my all
My heart no one sees, no one cares No one knows my reasons why They revile and hate me and so too mine For bringing the pain of our captors lie
I see the pharisees in their robes They who give, acting as laws require In deep public prayer of thanks to God For their special places near the fire
Oh I humbly now pray and worship Asking for your forgiving grace Regretting the wrong I’ve done and do For the pain I’ve caused this place
Oh that I could ever be understood That I could ever be respected again That I could even look up at faces That I be forgiven my life’s grave sin
Dear Jesus, I am weak and sinful And I come humbly to you Seeking your loving mercy I humbly offer my heart and my life For your love is eternal understanding You know all my weaknesses and fears And so I humbly bring my all, and know You will lovingly forgive again my fall