"Exchange"

I have been
Arrogant
Proud
Lustful
Selfish
Greedy
Sinful
Worthy of death

You were
Meek
Humble
Loving
Selfless
Giving
Holy
Worthy of life

But you took mine
And gave me yours

I have nothing to offer,
Not even excuses;
You have everything I need,
Yes, even forgiveness

"Martha"

I didn’t know Martha
—I can say with absolute certainty
that she never treated me like a stepgrandson—
But after coming here,
And being greeted with a swarm of smiles, hugs, and handshakes from people I’ve never met,
I can say of Martha,
That I know her