Just As I Am, by Amanda

In this beautiful poem, Amanda, who traveled with Choir 24 in 2003/2004, writes about her experience.

I am
Bright
Brilliant
Beautiful
Just as I am.

I am
Sufficient
Intelligent
Resilient
Just as I am.

I know that
In this deep darkness of
Pain, loss and grief
I may sometimes feel different

I know that
Because of these scars
Of orphanhood
This poverty
And brokenness
The world will whisper differently

But I will choose to know that

I am
Bright
Brilliant
Beautiful
Just as I am.

I am
Sufficient
Intelligent
Resilient
Just as I am.

I know that
Because of my
social class, history and background
People will expect much less from me

I know that
My weaknesses
Humanness
And brokenness
May want to succumb to these lies

But I will choose to remember always that
My vulnerability – is not incapability
Because the greatest human strength is drawn from our deepest pain and brokenness

So I am an unlimited potential
I am hope
I am
Bright
Brilliant
Beautiful
Just as I am.

I am
Sufficient
Intelligent
Resilient
Just as I am.

To discover how you can support children like Amanda to reach their full potential, just as they are, visit our #JustAsIAm campaign page here.