This world is about proving oneself worthy,
To show the proper credentials,
To prove we have requisite experience,
To take on new challenges,
But we know how well that game works.
Yeats’ words grow ever more true.
This world is dimmed with passionate intensity.
Anyone can say anything. There is no shame.

“I take you with nothing. As nothing,” says Christ.
“I take your worst acts and know them. Know thyself.
In me.”

–Joan Curbow

Joan Curbow is a reference librarian and archivist at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa.