I had to write and praise Emma W. for “Am I Cain?” It was both compelling and touching, and despite writing it from a deeply personal place, she managed to focus on the feelings of her family as well as her own. I greatly admire her, not only for her fine writing, but also for her ability to write from a raw, honest place. I struggle with writing personal pieces too.

In my opinion, going back and sharing those innermost thoughts that shamed her is courageous. Emma's mature perspective at the end and ability to tell such a heart-wrenching ­story truly made “Am I Cain?” extraordinary.