Living Under the Influence of Jean Valjean

Vandals can't handle
The grace that comes from being pardoned.
Burglars can't hurdle
The mercy that results from forgiveness.

All it takes sometimes is saying, "I'm sorry,"
But none of us know quite what that means.
All it takes sometimes is hearing "You are forgiven,"
But none of us can fathom quite how that works.

Slaves can't take
The freedom that comes when all debts are paid.
The bound-up can't round-up
The love it takes to throw the chains away.

What we need we do not understand.
What we receive we do not deserve.
What we give pales in comparison.
And how we live is such a poor account.

APN
Copyright 08/14/2005