In the beginning I was steady and unwavering. Feet planted firmly in a world of grotesque realities, I tried not to feel, having felt too much in the past, having been wounded and damaged, and left alone to forage through a life that had been stripped of any significant meaning. Slowly I began to make my way down dimly lit paths. I could see lights on the horizon that never seemed to get any closer. No matter which road I followed; no matter how swift my steps, they remained but a distant beacon of hope. A hope that always fell just beyond my reach. Along these same paths, there were moments... when shadows faded and the sun kissed my face; but the clouds never failed to roll back in and draw their gloomy veil over happier times. One day, quite unexpectedly, a glistening ray began to cascade down. I was motionless, attempting strength and teatering on the uneasy. The light drew nearer, slowly, peacefully, and without malice. Frieghtend, yet hopeful, I did not falter. The shorter the distance between myself and the light, the less chill I felt in my bones. The light lay to rest just at arms reach. At first, too scared to extend my hand, still shivering, I stood teary and as wide eyed as an infant learning something new. The warmth soon overtook me and I embraced it wholeheartedly. Since that moment, my smiles have rarely ceased and the warmth has yet to wain. I no longer feel the pain.