Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:31-32

I’ve been angry.
I suppose I’ve felt wrath,
although that sounds so much bigger than me.
That seems more the size of a monster,
about to swallow a city.
I’m somewhat allergic to clamor
and slander.
I cringe at loud noises and people.
And though I love bells and music,
I might even put mufflers on steeples.
I’m reasonably good at kindness
and tenderness.
Of course, it’s easier when it’s in kind.
If I keep in mind
my debt to Christ,
forgiveness is more feasible too.

© Joel Tipple 10/12/2018