**[Verse 1]** Am I a heretic, an abomination? A soul condemned for asking why? I learned the words, I knew the answers, But there were questions locked inside. Questions I was scared to whisper, Truths I feared might change my fate, Then one by one I dared to ask them— And they called me apostate. **[Pre-Chorus]** I didn't leave because I hated, I didn't leave because I knew, I only pulled upon a thread To see if what I loved was true. **[Chorus]** Apostate— Is that what I am now? Self-exiled for asking questions I was once afraid to ask out loud. Apostate— I'm frightened, but I'm free, It takes all the courage I can muster To follow where the truth may lead. **[Verse 2]** There was comfort in belonging, There was safety in the fold, Every question had an answer, Every mystery was told. Now I'm standing past the boundary, Where certainty gives way, Missing those who stood beside me, Wondering what they'll say. **[Pre-Chorus]** I never wanted to lose anyone, I never wanted this divide, But I can't pretend I still believe Just to keep my place inside. **[Chorus]** Apostate— Is that what I am now? Self-exiled for asking questions I was once afraid to ask out loud. Apostate— I'm frightened, but I'm free, It takes all the courage I can muster To follow where the truth may lead. **[Bridge]** If truth is sacred, let me seek it. If God is there, He'll understand. Surely honest doubt is better Than a faith built upon sand. So I'll walk into the darkness With no promise, map, or guide. Maybe courage isn't knowing— Maybe courage is the stride. **[Final Chorus]** Apostate— Maybe that's what I am now. But I will not fear the questions I was once afraid to ask out loud. Apostate— Still frightened, standing free, With all the courage I can muster, I'll follow where the truth may lead. **[Outro]** I didn't choose to lose my answers. I only chose not to pretend. If asking makes me an apostate— Then I'll keep asking to the end.
