[Verse 1]
I was the shadow in the corner of the frame
The middle child with a number, not a name
Heard the yelling through the walls like a prayer
But no God came down, no one really cared
Bruised in the body, but worse in the mind
Had to smile through it all, leave the tears behind
Felt like silence was the language I learned best
Just a heartbeat tryin' to beat inside my chest
[Chorus]
So don’t take me to church, I’ve been through hell
Raised in fire, but I wear it well
Older now, don’t know if I’m wise
Missed some truths, but I caught the lies
Still I rise — still I rise
Even if I’m still alone tonight
I’m not who I was — I’m who survived
[Verse 2]
Used to whisper just to feel like I was heard
Spoke in pain, but they twisted every word
Learned to walk with my guard up like skin
Found my strength in the places I've been
I don't pretend I got it all right
Still sleep with the shadows, still flinch at the light
But there's power in knowing your own flame
And peace in never needing to explain
[Chorus]
Don’t take me to church, I’ve been through hell
Raised in fire, but I wear it well
Older now, don’t know if I’m wise
Skipped some steps but I’m still alive
Still I rise — still I rise
Even if I’m still alone tonight
I’m not who I was — I’m who survived
[Bridge]
There’s no crown, no saving grace
But I found beauty in my face
In every scar, in every tear
I built a voice that they now hear
[Chorus – final]
No need for your church, I’ve seen my hell
And I came back with a story to tell
Older now, no saint, no guide
But I stand strong with my battle cry
Still I rise — still I rise
Even if I’m still alone tonight
I’m not who I was — I’m who survived