June 11th

“If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.” 2 Corinthians 11:30

if i swagger, let it be
as grace turns my stumbles
into dance steps.
it i crow, let it be
with that raspy voice
from singing all night about hope.
if i boast, let it be
with the splinters of my heart
cracked by the wounds of the world.
if i gloat, let it be
about the vulnerable being chosen
to sit at the head table of love.
if i brag, let it be prayers
whispered from those
failure built prisons as mercy
creeps in on little feet.
for whatever claim
i might make about myself
is but that stone i roll
in front of my soul, but
which you push open
to welcome me into
the new life you offer.

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman