The Story Behind the Poem
Have you ever been found out? It’s an awful feeling. Heart in throat. Can’t eat. Breathe. Get out of bed. There’s a process that starts with shame and ends with grace. If you know that feeling, you’ll understand this poem.
The Colors of Humility
by Sarah Steele
August 2014
Humility starts red
When it’s unwanted
And force-fed
I’m discovered
And filled with dread
For the road that lies ahead
I’d rather just play dead
Humility turns pink
When shock is gone
Now exposed chink
Declares the sin
It starts to stink
But it’s right there—written in ink
Mind turns numb; too hard to think
Humility goes white
As facts set in
And I feel fright
At the horror
Of sin’s deep bite
I might collapse; its grip is tight
Try to ignore; too weak to fight
Humility changes black
How dare they point
I see their sack
Filled high with sin
I’ll throw a smack
I have a list of what they lack
I’m happy to expose their crack
Humility grows blue
Spirit convicts
Bids pride adieu
With tears that shake
My body through
Right to the Cross, my soul He drew
That perfect Man, me to pursue
Humility finishes red
Not in embarrassment
Nor dread
But in the active laying down
Of my life that’s been mislead
Fighting lies deception bred
“BUT GOD!” I rest my head.
I LOVE this poem. I remember the first time you gave it to me <3 It's easier to read this time. And it's so, so true!
I wrote it just for you, my friend. And cried all the while. I’ve re-read it in some of my own moments where humility was required…or being force taught. You have captured its essence beautiful in your humble submission to the Lord to learn all He has for you. <3
I either totally forgot that you had wrote it just for me or didn’t realize it… you were (and are) a good friend, Sarah. I’m thankful for you. Thankful for these past couple years and the deeper friendship that has formed. The Lord does good things through pain… and sin… crazy, huh?!
Amazing that a deep friendship doesn’t have to be a daily one. I’m super thankful for you as well, Alisha! Oh pain and sin, your one redeeming grace is that you bring us closer to our Lord! I look forward when He no longer will use those means…