The first step toward living.

I almost want to cry,
in relief, in acceptance,
in gratitude.

But I don't want to
waste these tears,
these emotions that
have propelled me forward.

I'm overwhelmed -
uncomfortable,
in the best kind of way.

In the kind of way that
lets me know I'm proud
of myself; I'm prioritizing
me.

No, it wasn't easy,
shifting around on an
L-shaped couch
and wondering if you'll
be somebody I can trust,
saying aloud the things
I've hidden in ink
all these years,

but I felt heard, acknowledged.

It's amazing what sharing
can do, when you're finally ready
to address the discomfort,

ready to do more than hover
over an inevitable rock bottom.