Oh, yes, I heard the vicious name you called me,
That ugly epithet and the hate that lay behind.
The arrow, drenched in poison, found its mark,
And I would be a liar if I said I did not mind.

I can't pretend to understand the why;
What wrong have I done you that would cause such bitter hate?
I know I cannot force you to accept
My friendship, and I will not waste my time in vain debate.

You like me, or you don't; that is your choice.
The venom of your speech may hurt but not control me.
Oh no; you cannot force me to accept
Your words, your mean assessment of my worth; by grace I'm free,

Free to live and serve the One Who made me.
By faith I call His Name; I find shelter in His Hand,
For He Who calls me "Daughter" gives me strength
To pray for you against the force of hate; in Him I stand!