Lyrics Page
When I Was Young
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Aug 25, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Brandon Heath's song 'When I Was Young' reflects on childhood innocence and the simplicity of faith, contrasting it with the fears and complications of adulthood. The lyrics recall carefree moments like riding a bike without a helmet and the security of saying prayers at night, feeling God's presence. Heath acknowledges how growing older brings worries and a tendency to play it safe, yet he longs to regain the childlike trust he once had. The song gently encourages listeners to learn from their younger selves and return to a more faithful, unburdened approach to life.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
When I was young
I rode my big wheel
Down a big hill
No helmet on
When I was young
I found a baby bird
With no mother
I took it in
When I was young
When I was young
Thought I could breakdance
In my parachute pants
I was so cool
When I was young
I had no money
Never went hungry
Thank you, Mom
As we go through the years
Somehow those little fears
Grow into something else
Our older wiser selves
So now I play it safe
Oh, me of little faith
Could learn a thing or two
From who I used to be
When I was young
When I was young
I had no regrets
No big secrets
Except for one
I liked a girl
I never told her
She was older and popular
As we go through the years
Somehow those little fears
Grow into something else
Our complicated selves
So now I play it safe
Oh, me of little faith
Could learn a thing or two
From who I used to be
When I was young
Each night I'd say my prayers
And He was there
I slept so well
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young