Jimmy Murray, you are an ass,’ said Aunt Ruth, angrily.’Well, we’re cousins,’ agreed Cousin Jimmy pleasantly.

listen, a goad’s anything that provokes or incites an enemy—let me have a go: cursed deamon! you have met your end! the shivering fire awaits you! i shall spread your vile essance across this hall...

Such kindness wasn’t a gift but a goad, scraping against one’s skin like a yoke of thorns. She would have preferred him stiff, defensive, even offensive.

When there is silence, Give your voice. When there is darkness, Shine your light. When there is desperation, Offer hope.