Poem #236
by Emily Dickinson
Raised as a Catholic, I myself have attended church every Sunday since I can remember. I have recently stopped going because I question its politics. I know of many people who have acted unforgivably yet, attend church regularly. They think their souls are in no jeopardy because they attend weekly services and they fear for mine because I don’t. I justify my own feelings as others should. This poem does just that; it is telling us to follow what we believe, not what others tell us to believe in. I still hold great faith in God; I just choose not to follow his disciples or those who claim to be. I believe God will accept me and for what I believe, even if those around me will not.
Tiffany Garcia
22 years old; Student and Senior Library Page, SJSU
Santa Clara
Poem #236
Some keep the Sabbath going to Church —
I keep it, staying at Home —
With a Bobolink for a Chorister —
And an Orchard, for a Dome —
Some keep the Sabbath in Surplice —
I just wear my Wings —
And instead of tolling the Bell, for Church,
Our little Sexton — sings.
God preaches, a noted Clergyman —
And the sermon is never long,
So instead of getting to Heaven, at least —
I’m going, all along.
Santa Clara County Poet Laureate Blog 
I love this poem and I love the wisdom contained within it, Tiffany. I think your explanation and your feelings about this poem encompass a deep truth. Thank you for reminding me of this particular poem and of this particular truth.
This poem and Tiffany’s comment is exactly my feelings. Thank you for posting such a powerful poem.