When God Made Me
Neil Young · Prairie Wind [2005]
Was he thinkin' about my country
Or the color of my skin?
Was he thinkin' 'bout my religion
And the way I worshipped him?
Did he create just me in his image
Or every living thing?
When God made me
When God made me
Was he planning only for believers
Or for those who just have faith?
Did he envision all the wars
That were fought in his name?
Did he say there was only one way
To be close to him?
When God made me
When God made me
Did he give me the gift of love
To say who I could choose?
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
Did he give me the gift of voice
So some could silence me?
Did he give me the gift of vision
Not knowing what I might see?
Did he give me the gift of compassion
To help my fellow man?
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
Or the color of my skin?
Was he thinkin' 'bout my religion
And the way I worshipped him?
Did he create just me in his image
Or every living thing?
When God made me
When God made me
Was he planning only for believers
Or for those who just have faith?
Did he envision all the wars
That were fought in his name?
Did he say there was only one way
To be close to him?
When God made me
When God made me
Did he give me the gift of love
To say who I could choose?
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
Did he give me the gift of voice
So some could silence me?
Did he give me the gift of vision
Not knowing what I might see?
Did he give me the gift of compassion
To help my fellow man?
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
When God made me
When God Made Me
When God Made Me stands as a poignant reflection within Neil Young's 2005 album Prairie Wind. Recorded during a period of deep introspection following the loss of his wife, the track captures Young's signature blend of folk and country influences. The song explores themes of identity and divine creation, delivered through his characteristic raw vocal style and acoustic instrumentation. As part of a cohesive album that draws heavily on his Canadian roots, the recording highlights Young's enduring ability to craft intimate narratives about personal struggle and resilience. This work remains a significant song in his extensive discography, showcasing the emotional depth that has defined his career for decades.